Leadwood

Scientific name:  Combretum imberbe

Description:  Heartwood is a rich, reddish-brown to dark brown; colour darkens with age. Clearly demarcated sapwood is a pale yellow.  Knots and other grain irregularities are not uncommon. Fine uniform texture.

Properties:  Generally difficult to work because of its density; sharp cutters must be used to avoid tearout. Can also give problems in gluing and finishing. Turns superbly.