Common Name:

General Information

Swartzia tomentosa is an evergreen tree growing up to 15 metres tall. It has low buttresses[].
The tree is harvested from the wild for its very durable and attractive timber.

Known Hazards

When working the wood, the dust from it may cause irritation to mucous membranes in the nose and throat[].

Botanical References

Range

Northern S. America - Venezuela, the Guyanas.

Habitat

Rainforests[].

Properties

Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Tree
Height	12.00 m
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

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

Other Uses

The heartwood is dark red-brown; it is clearly demarcated from the 40 - 80mm wide, light brown-yellow sapwood. Lustre medium to high. The texture is fine; lustre medium to high; grain straight to interlocked, producing a distinct ribbon figure; growth rings indistinct[]. The wood is very hard, heavy, strong, stiff, very durable in exposed situations, very resistant to termites but prone to marine borer attack[]. It is difficult to work, though it finishes smoothly, turns well and takes a high polish; pre-boring is essential for nails and screws[]. A valuable and beautiful wood that can be used for turnery, inlay etc; it makes excellent oars[].

Propagation

Seed -

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