Common Name:

General Information

Swartzia acutifolia is a semideciduous tree with a rounded crown; it can grow 10 - 12 metres tall. The straight, cylindrical bole can be 30 - 40cm in diameter[].
The tree is harvested from the wild for local use of its timber. It is also a potential pioneer species.

Known Hazards

The sawdust from wood of plants in this genus can be irritating to mill workers[].

Botanical References

Range

S America - eastern Brazil.

Habitat

Dry, semi-deciduous forests, especially in well-drained soils near the coast[].

Properties

Other Uses Rating
Habit	Semi-deciduous Tree
Height	10.00 m
Growth Rate	Fast
Cultivation Status	Cultivated, Wild

Cultivation Details

A tree of moderate elevations in the tropics, where it is found at elevations around 1,000 metres.
Grows best in a sunny position[]. Prefers a well-drained soil[]. Established plants are drought tolerant[].
Newly planted young trees establish well and grow away rapidly[].
This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Agroforestry Uses:

A fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing tree that provides an edible seed for the local fauna, it is a natural pioneer within its native range and should be a suitable species for reforestation projects[].

Other Uses

The wood is irregular-grained, coarse-textured, heavy, hard and durable. It is suitable for general interior construction[].
We have no more information on the wood of this species. However, a general description of the wood from plants in this genus is as follows:-
The heartwood is dark brown, reddish-brown, or nearly black, in solid colour or somewhat variegated; it is sharply demarcated from the nearly white to yellowish sapwood. The texture is very fine to medium; the grain straight to irregular; lustre is usually medium; there is no distinctive odour or taste. The heartwood is very resistant to attack by decay fungi and resistant to dry-wood termites, though it is not resistant to marine borers. The wood is generally reported to be moderately difficult to air dry because of checking and warp. It is difficult to work because of its high density, but it finishes very smoothly and takes a high polish. It is used for purposes such as inlay, parquet flooring, turnery, furniture, cabinetwork, violin bows, specialty items; and has been suggested as a substitute for ebony[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in individual containers in a semi-shaded position[]. A high germination rate can be expected, with the seeds sprouting within 30 - 40 days[]. Seedlings grow away rapidly[].

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