Bocote
Cordia elaeagnoides • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked with a highly figured, zebra-like or landscape appearance; often exhibits 'eyes' and dramatic swirls
Color Description
Heartwood is yellowish brown with dark brown to blackish streaks; color tends to darken significantly with age and light exposure; high natural luster
Hardness Rating
2,010 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; good resistance to decay and insect attack, though rarely used in outdoor applications due to cost
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneers, musical instruments (guitars), knife handles, and decorative turned objects like the pen shown
Geographic Origin
Central America and Mexico
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 to $50.00 per board foot; typically sold as turning blanks or thin veneer
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample (less than 5 years old); displays fresh oxidation and high-gloss polish typical of contemporary lathe-turned crafts
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable but availability varies by region
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though high oil content can make gluing difficult; turns and finishes exceptionally well
Notable Features
Features a distinct, dill-pickle-like scent when being worked; high natural oil content provides a natural waxy shine; very high density
Finish Recommendations
CYA (Cyanoacrylate) glue finish is standard for pens; otherwise, high-quality wax or lacquer to preserve the dramatic grain contrast
Identification Confidence
High; the yellowish-brown base with dark, irregular 'landscape' streaks and 'eyes' is a signature characteristic of Cordia elaeagnoides