Indian Laurel (likely Ficus microcarpa or Ficus nitida)
Ficus microcarpa • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked to wavy, appearing medium-to-coarse textured with a visible growth ring pattern on the cross-section of the pruning cut.
Color Description
Heartwood is light brown to medium yellow-brown with a muted luster; sapwood is pale cream-white. The exposed cut shows honey-gold oxidation at the edges.
Hardness Rating
1,100 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left in contact with ground or moisture.
Common Uses
Furniture, veneer, fuel wood, carving, and shade tree landscaping.
Geographic Origin
Native to Tropical Asia, Southern China, and Australia; widely planted in Southern California, Arizona, and Florida.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (locally traded as Fig or Laurel; rarely commercially exported).
Wood Age Estimate
The standing tree appears to be 20-30 years old; the specific pruning wound shows approximately 1-2 years of callus wood (woundwood) growth around the edge.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); not CITES listed. Highly invasive in some tropical regions.
Workability
Moderately difficult due to interlocked grain which causes tearout; contains high amounts of latex/sap which can gum up blades and sandpaper.
Notable Features
Milky white sap (latex) is an irritant; the bark is smooth and grey resembling beech; notable for its aggressive root systems and ability to produce aerial roots.
Finish Recommendations
Requires thorough drying to prevent warping; clear polyurethane or lacquer works well to preserve the light brown tones.
Identification Confidence
High; the smooth grey bark, 'eye-like' pruning scars with rapid callus formation, and leaf structure in the background are classic indicators of Ficus microcarpa/nitida.