Description

The Burmese rosewood tree is native to tropical south east Asia including Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and parts of India. It is a moderate sized tree, typically ranging from 15 to 30m in height.

Although not as well known or as valuable as some of the other rosewoods, Burmese rosewood is considered to be very attractive. The sapwood is yellow-white and is clearly demarcated from the heartwood which ranges from orange-brown to dark red-brown, often with darker streaks or stripes. The colour tends to darken with age, but not to the same degree as other rosewoods which can go almost black over time. The grain of Burmese rosewood is typically straight grained with some interlocking, and the wood is very hard, dense and with a medium fine texture.

Burmese rosewood machines, turns, and polishes well with good natural luster, but can be hard on cutting edges and the natural oils in the wood can make gluing and finishing problematic if appropriate precautions are not taken.

Used locally for flooring, furniture, high-end cabinetry, and musical instruments (especially xylophones).

Also known as:

• Padong Rosewood
• Asian Rosewood
• Laos Rosewood

For further information see:

• The Wood Database
• Useful Tropical Plants