Distribution: The
species in this group are found in Equatorial Africa from
Southeast Nigeria, through Cameroon and Gabon to the Congo
region. Occur in Swampy or periodically inundated forests,
also near river or lake shores.
General Characteristics: Reaches
a height of 130 to 150 ft; boles are straight and cylindrical
to 70 ft, sometimes fluted or buttressed; trunk diameters
3 to 6 ft. Heartwood pink, vivid red, or brown with purple
streaks or veins, on exposure becomes yellow or medium
brown with a reddish tint, veining becomes less conspicuous;
sapwood whitish and clearly demarcated. Texture is fine
and even; grain is straight or interlocked; lustrous; sometimes
highly figured; has an unpleasant odor when first cut which
disappears on drying.
Weight: Basic specific gravity
(ovendry weight/green volume) mostly 0.65 to 0.78; air-dry
density is 50 to 60 pcf.
Working Properties: Though
quite hard and heavy, the species work, saw, and plane
rather well and produce a good finish; glues well; a good
wood for turning.
Durability: Heartwood has
a good durability and is resistant to termite attack. Moderately
resistant to marine bores.
Preservation: Heartwood
is resistant to impregnation; sapwood is moderately resistant.
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