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Species

A mono-specific timber, Schima wallichiana Choisy (Medang gatal)

General Characteristics

Sapwood: Light fawn brown merging into the darker coloured heartwood. Heartwood: Pink brown or light red brown. Texture: Moderately fine and even; grain interlocked or irregular. Weight (Air-dry): Wood moderately hard to moderately heavy ranging from 38-47 lb/cu.ft. with an average of 43 lb/cu ft. Durability: Not durable when used in contact with the ground, the timber being easily attacked by fungus and termites. However, it will be fairly durable to durable if used under cover.

Structure

Growth rings pressent , demarcated by layers of darker coloured tissue without vessels. Vessels numerous, small to medium sized; predominatly solitary; perforation plates scalariform but not visible even with lens; open, withour tyloses or deposits. Wood Parenchyma sparse, in diffuse strands; visible only with lens. Rays very fine, visible only with a lens; not conspicuous on radial surface. Ripple marks absent. Intercellular canals absent

Other Features

Lather test positive .

Uses

The timber is suitable for flooring, panelling, door and window frames, planking, plywood manufacure, wooden pallets and charchoal manufacture.