Massaranduba, Bulletwood

Scientific name:  Manilkara bidentata

Description:  Heartwood is a medium to dark reddish-brown. Color tends to darken with age. Pale yellow sapwood is clearly differentiated from the heartwood, though not always sharply demarcated.  Grain straight to interlocked or wavy; fine uniform texture with low natural luster.

Properties:  Despite its high density, Massarnduba generally produces good results with both hand and machine tools, though it does exhibit an above-average dulling effect on cutters. Responds well to steam-bending. Can pose challenges in gluing due to high density and oil content.