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MATUMI (Mingerhout)
Botanical name: Adina
microcephala
Family: Rubiaceae
- Distribution: Tanzania,
Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Eastern Transvaal.
- Characteristics: The
sapwood is not clearly defined from the heartwood which is yellowish brown
with darker markings. When freshly cut the wood is very oily and greasy to
touch; the grain is irregular, and the texture very fine. A hard, strong and
heavy wood, it weighs from 800 – 1025 Kg / m3 when dried.
- Working qualities: Owing
to its hardness it is difficult to work although an excellent finish can be
obtained. It polishes well, but is difficult to glue due to the prevalence of
oil.
- Uses: Used
historically for guide blocks in mining, machine bearings (because of its oily
nature), wagon building and heavy construction. Has been used for flooring and
decking.
Information kindly supplied by Country Woods. © Country Woods
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