Description

Also known as redheart, it is most often referred to by it Mayan name "Chakte kok", this wood has a distinct, brilliant watermelon red colour when first cut. the brilliant red mellows to a warm red -brown over time. Chakte kok is found primarily in Central America, from Mexico to Panama to northern South America. It is reported to be abundant throughout out its native range. Chakte kok is a relatively small tree that grows to a maximum of 25 m in height with a diameter typically less than 0.5 m.

The sapwood of Chakte kok is broad, creamy-white, and clearly demarcated from the brilliant red heartwood. The wood it find grained and often has considerable chatoyance (shimmer). The vibrant red of freshly cut wood oxidized fairly quickly to a brown or brown-red. The wood is often considered be quite attractive.

Chakte kok is easy to work, it machines, turns, glues and finishes well. It is used for furniture, cabinets, and veneer and is often used for turned items such as bowls and pool cues. It is also used for decorative objects like knife scales and boxes, and accents on larger pieces. The colour of Chakte kok is so intense, that a little goes a long way.

Also known as:

• Redheart

For further information see:

• The Wood Database
• Wood to Know