Bloodwood

Brosimum rubescens

Trade Name: Bloodwood

Scientific Name: Brosimum rubescens

Common Name(s) in Different Countries:

  • United States: Bloodwood

  • Canada: Bloodwood

  • United Kingdom: Bloodwood

  • France: Bloodwood

  • French Guyana: Bois rouge

  • Australia: Bloodwood

  • Japan: ブラッドウッド (Buraddouddo)

  • Taiwan: 血樹木 (Xuè shù mù)

  • China: 血木 (Xiě mù)

  • South Korea: 피나무 (Pinamu)

  • Thailand: ไม้เลือด (M̂ả xelụ̄̀d)

  • India: ब्लडवुड (Bladavud)

  • Suriname: Bloedhout

  • Guyana: Bloodwood

  • Brasil: Sangue-de-dragão

  • Germany: Blutbaum

  • Italy: Legno di sangue

  • Portugal: Pau-sangue

  • Peru: Sangre de Drago

  • Bolivia: Sangre de Drago

  • Panama: Sangre de Drago

Growing Areas: Bloodwood trees are native to tropical regions of South America, primarily found in countries such as Brazil, Suriname, and Guyana.

Distribution: This species is distributed throughout the Amazon Basin and adjacent regions, where it grows in dense rainforests.

Tree Size: Bloodwood trees typically reach heights of 60-80 feet (18-24 meters) with trunk diameters ranging from 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters).

Average Dried Weight: 62 lbs/ft³ (990 kg/m³)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): 0.99

Janka Hardness: 2,900 lbf (12,900 N)

Modulus of Rupture: 23,850 lbf/in² (164.5 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 2,155,000 lbf/in² (14.85 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 12,850 lbf/in² (88.6 MPa)

Shrinkage:

  • Radial: 4.2%

  • Tangential: 8.2%

  • Volumetric: 12.8%

  • T/R Ratio: 2.0

Color/Appearance: Bloodwood heartwood ranges from a deep, rich red to a darker reddish-brown, often with streaks or veins of darker coloration. The sapwood is usually pale yellow and distinct from the heartwood.

Grain/Texture: Bloodwood typically has a straight to slightly interlocked grain with a fine to medium texture. It has a natural luster that enhances its visual appeal.

Rot Resistance: Bloodwood is highly resistant to decay and insect attacks, making it suitable for outdoor applications such as decking, siding, and outdoor furniture.

Workability: Bloodwood is moderately difficult to work with due to its high density and hardness. It may blunt cutting edges, but it sands and finishes well to a smooth surface.

Odor: Bloodwood may emit a mild, sweet scent when freshly cut.

Allergies/Toxicity: There are no known allergenic properties associated with Bloodwood. However, as with all woods, proper dust collection and protective equipment should be used to avoid respiratory irritation.

Pricing/Availability: Bloodwood is considered a premium hardwood and is typically available at a moderate to high price point. It may be less readily available compared to more common hardwood species.

Sustainability: While Bloodwood is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, sustainable harvesting practices should be followed to ensure the long-term health of forest ecosystems.

Common Uses: Bloodwood is commonly used for high-end furniture, flooring, cabinetry, turned objects, musical instruments, and decorative veneers. Its striking color and durability make it a popular choice for both interior and exterior applications.

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