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Species

Major species: Macaranga hosei King ex Hk. f. ; M. Iowii King ex. Hk. f. Other species: M. conifera (Zoll.) M.A.; M. giganta (Rchb. f. et. Zoll.) M.A.: M. hypoleaca (Rchb. f. et Zoll.) M.A.; M. pruinosa (Miq.) M.A.; M.recurvata Gage.

General Characteristics

Sapwood: Not differentiated from heartwood. Heartwood: Light yellow brown, occasionally with a pink tinge. Texture: Moderately fine and even; grain straight or shallowly interlocked. Weight (Air-dry): Wood soft to moderately hard and light to moderately heavy, ranging from 15-50 lb/cu ft. with average of 28 lb/cu ft. Durability: Not durable under exposed condition. Susceptible to powder-ost beetle attacks.

Structure

Growth rings occasionally pressent, demarcated by layers of thick walled fibres. Vessels moderately small to medium-sized; moderately few; solitary or in radial groups of 2-4, tyloses and deposits absent. Wood Parenchyma present in narrow closely spaced apotracheal bands. Rays very fine, not inconspicuous on the radial surface. Ripple marks absent. Intercellular canals absent .

Other Features

Lather test negative .

Uses

The timber is suitable for the manufacture of match plints, pulp and maper, particleboard, cement-bonded board and is suitable for the production of plywood. Peeled mahang poles are frequently used for temporary construction and especially for parts of native houses not in contact with the ground. the timber is used for light framing, interior or trim, moulding and packing cases. In the Philipines it has been a favourite wood for wooden shoes.