Trade Names
Cocobolo, Grenadillo
Similar Woods
Origin
Central America, South America
Range
Central and northeastern parts of South America, particularly down the west coast of Nicaragua, but also in Mexico, Costa Rica, Honduras and Panama. The Dalbergia hypoleuca is often listed as Cocobolo.
Uses
eneer for architectural woodwork or inlays, all kinds of handles, parts of woodwind instruments (but not for mouthpieces).
Properties
The heartwood is red to dark brown with black lines. Due to its high oil content the surface appears dense with waxy luster. An absolutely superior wood.
Machining
Due to its high density and interlocking grain this wood is very dif cult to machine. Preference is to be given to carbide-tipped tools. Planed surfaces can be very smooth.
Seasoning
his wood can be dried only with the greatest care and precautions must be taken to obtain the final product free of checking. It is of advantage to season in log form.
Finishing
n general surface treatment presents no problems. Since the wood darkens fast the use of UV-resistant varnishes is to be given preference.
Jointing
Due to the deposits in this wood it is extremely difficult to glue. Screw and nail joints hold well but pre-drilling is recommended.