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.