Palo Santo
Bulnesia sarmientoi (Verawood) or Bursera graveolens • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Interlocked, tight grain with a fine, even texture; often shows a spiral or irregular pattern in small turned pieces.
Color Description
Heartwood can range from olive brown to dark chocolate brown, sometimes with blackish streaks. Often develops a distinct greenish-yellow or olive patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
Approx. 3,710 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. High natural oil content makes it extremely resistant to rot, insects, and decay.
Common Uses
Incense (sacred wood), essential oils, carving, small turned objects, tool handles, and heavy construction.
Geographic Origin
Gran Chaco region of South America (Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $60.00 per board foot (often sold by weight due to rarity).
Wood Age Estimate
Post-harvest specimen, likely 1-5 years old based on the preserved greenish oxidation layer typical of cured samples.
Sustainability Status
Bulnesia sarmientoi is listed in CITES Appendix II; Bursera graveolens is protected in several South American countries.
Workability
Difficult due to extreme density and high oil content; tends to gum up sandpaper and can be difficult to glue; turns very well on a lathe.
Notable Features
Distinctive sweet, resinous citrus-like fragrance even years after cutting; high essential oil content; high density (will sink in water).
Finish Recommendations
Best left natural or finished with a light wax to preserve the scent. High oil content can cause bonding issues with polyurethane or lacquer.
Identification Confidence
Medium. The greenish-olive hue, small circular 'puck' form factor common for incense use, and dense end-grain suggest Palo Santo, though positive ID requires a scent test.