Page 13 - OHC Hard Woods Tech Guide - 08102017

CUMARU

CHARACTERISTICS

Common Name(s) Workability

Cumaru, Brazilian Teak Cumaru tends to be difficult to work on account of its

Scientific Name density and interlocked grain. If the grain is not too
Dipteryx odorata interlocked, Cumaru can be surface-planed to a smooth
finish. However, the wood contains silica and will have a
Distribution moderate blunting effect on tool cutters. Due to its high

Northern South America
oil content and density, Cumaru can present difficulties
Tree Size in gluing, and pre-boring is necessary when screwing or
130-160 ft. tall with a 3-5 ft. trunk diameter nailing the wood.

Color/Appearance Odor
Heartwood tends to be a medium to dark brown, Cumaru has a faint, vanilla or cinnamon-like odor when

sometimes with a reddish or purplish hue; some pieces being worked.
may have streaks of yellowish or greenish brown.
Allergies/Toxicity
Grain/Texture Besides the standard health risks associated with any

Grain is interlocked, with a medium texture and a waxy type of wood dust, no further health reactions have been
feel. associated with Cumaru.

Endgrain Sustainability
Diffuse-porous; solitary and radial multiples; large pores This wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices or

in no specific arrangement, few; heartwood mineral/gum on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
deposits present; parenchyma lozenge, aliform, confluent, Common Uses

and sometimes marginal; narrow rays, spacing fairly close.
Decking, flooring, cabinetry, furniture, heavy construction,
Rot Resistance docks, railroad ties, bearings, handles, and other turned

Cumaru has excellent durability and weathering objects.
properties. The wood is rated as very durable regarding

decay resistance, though it may be susceptible to some
insect attacks.

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OHC Hard Woods Tech Gd.indd 13 8/10/17 1:32 PM