Bocote
Family: Boraginaceae
Other Common Names: Anacahuite, Baria (Cuba), Siricote, Bocote, Cupane, Amapa asta (Mexico), Canalete (Colombia, Venezuela), Louro pardo (Brazil), Loro negro (Argentina).
Distribution: The several species of this group are found in northern Florida, West Indies, Central America, and southward to Brazil and Argentina.
The Tree: A small to large tree, sometimes 100 ft. tall. In Mexico the trees are found in Tropical Dry zones with precipitation of about 1,000 mm and up to 500 m elevations.
The Wood:
General Characteristics: Heartwood tobacco colored to reddish brown, with irregular dark brown or blackish streaks and variegations, with more or less of an oily or waxy appearance; rather sharply demarcated from the grayish or yellowish sapwood. Luster variable; texture fine to medium, grain variable; taste not distinctive; scent mild fragrant, at least when fresh.
Weight: Basic specific gravity (ovendry weight/green volume) ranges from 0.63 to 0.84; air-dry density 48 to 65 pcf.
Mechanical Properties: (First set of data based on 2-in. standard; second set on 2-cm standard.)
Moisture content Bending strength Modulus of elasticity Maximum crushing strength
(%) (Psi) (1,000 psi) (Psi)
Green (19) 13,700 1,390 NA
12% 15,700 1,580 NA
Green (30) 13,700 1,760 8,500
15% 18,500 NA 9,000
Janka side hardness 2,200 lb for air-dry material. Amsler toughness 340 in.-lb at 15% moisture content (2-cm specimen).
Drying and Shrinkage: The wood is difficult to dry; readily develops surface checking and end splitting. Kiln schedule T6-D2 is suggested for 4/4 stock and T3-D1 for 8/4. Shrinkage green to ovendry: radial 4.0%; tangential 7.4%; volumetric 11.6%. Holds its place well when manufactured.
Working Properties: A readily worked timber, finishing very smoothly.
Durability: Durability is rated high.
Preservation: No data available.
Uses: Fine furniture, cabinet work, turnery, flooring, rotary and sliced veneer, and rifle stocks.
