Bloodwood (Satine)
Brosimum rubescens • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Primarily straight or slightly interlocked grain with a fine to medium texture. Common chatoyancy/ribbon figure is present, giving a lustrous appearance under light.
Color Description
Vivid strawberry red heartwood that can darken to a deeper brownish-red over time. Well-defined yellowish-white sapwood is usually absent in processed lumber. High natural luster and chatoyance.
Hardness Rating
2,900 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot and fungal decay. Resistant to insect attack due to high density and natural chemistry.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, turned objects, musical instruments, decorative veneers, inlay work, and knife handles.
Geographic Origin
Tropical South America (specifically the Amazon River basin and the Guianas).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on figure and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Unknown from image alone, though the slight darkening of the red hue suggests moderate exposure and oxidation (likely 5+ years since harvesting).
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; generally considered a sustainable exotic choice.
Workability
Difficult due to extreme hardness/density. Causes significant blunting of tools. Prone to brittle tearout during planing if grain is interlocked, but glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often has a faint, slight scent during woodworking. It is prized for its ability to maintain its red color significantly better than Padauk over long periods of time.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear, thin finishes like lacquer or shellac to showcase chatoyance; oil finishes may darken the wood significantly. UV-inhibiting finishes are recommended to prevent color shift.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The deep crimson color combined with the fine-pored structure and visible chatoyancy is highly characteristic of Brosimum rubescens.