Spalted Tamarind
Tamarindus indica · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to tropical Africa; widely cultivated in Southeast Asia, India, and other tropical regions worldwide.
- Hardness
- 2,690 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; while the heartwood is naturally rot-resistant, the spalting process indicates prior fungal decay which has softened the structure in those specific zones.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked or wavy grain displaying prominent spalt lines. Spatling creates irregular, jagged black zone lines caused by fungal activity, contrasting against the base grain.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a yellowish-brown with darker reddish-brown streaks. The spalted sections introduce high-contrast black lines and patches of grayish discoloration. The luster is generally low to medium.
Hardness (Janka)
2,690 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; while the heartwood is naturally rot-resistant, the spalting process indicates prior fungal decay which has softened the structure in those specific zones.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 - $35.00 per board foot depending on the intensity of the spalting and figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Unknown; the presence of spalting indicates the wood was in a state of controlled decay on the forest floor or in a damp environment for several months prior to being dried and processed.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable but availability of high-quality spalted pieces is localized.
Common Uses
Turning (bowls and pens), knife handles, decorative veneers, inlay work, and small specialty craft items.
Geographic Origin
Native to tropical Africa; widely cultivated in Southeast Asia, India, and other tropical regions worldwide.
Workability
Difficult due to extreme density and interlocked grain which causes tearout. The spalted areas are significantly softer than the surrounding wood, leading to uneven sanding and the potential for 'punky' spots that may require stabilization with CA glue or resin.
Finish Recommendations
Requires a sealer to handle the varying porosity of spalted areas. Cyanoacrylate (CA) glue or wood stabilizers are often used during turning. Finishes well with high-gloss oils, lacquer, or polyurethane to highlight the black lines.
Notable Features
Features distinct black 'zone lines' (spalting) caused by fungi. The wood is exceptionally heavy and can have a dulling effect on cutting edges. It has no characteristic odor.
