Description

Black mesquite is native to South America, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. Black mesquite is not widely used outside of its native range and information is difficult to find.

The tree itself is relatively small, evergreen tree that grows in arid conditions and is reported to be tolerant of flooding. The tree typically grows 4-10m in height with a trunk diameter of 0.5 to 0.8 m. In addition to wood, the tree produces edible seed pods that are harvested locally for food, and the wood is used as a source of tannin for tanning of leather and creation of dyes.

The colour of black mesquite wood ranges from various shades of medium to dark brown without any distinct grain patters or growth rings. Black mesquite is similar in tone to Black Walnut. The wood machines, turns, glues and finishes well.

Locally, black mesquite is used for making furniture, barrel, flooring and turned objects. It occasionally has figure and is becoming more widely available in small spindle blanks and knife scales.

Also known as:

No known aliases.

For further information see:

• The Wood Database