Names and distribution: The stone pine, also known as Swiss stone pine or Swiss stone pine, botanically Pinus cembra, belongs to the Pinaceae family (pine family) and is naturally widespread in the high altitudes of the Alps and Carpathians up to the tree line. The tree grows in association with spruces, pines and larches.
Wood appearance: The heartwood is yellowish and clearly set off from the white sapwood. Structure: fine-grained structure, low earlywood/latewood contrast, healthy, decorative.
Properties: The spec. weight is specified as 0.40 t/cbm at a wood moisture content of 12%. The swelling and shrinkage values are given as radial 2.9% and tangential 3.6%. Drying is unproblematic, but should still be carried out carefully with thick cross-sections. Can be worked well in all directions, good for turning and carving. Smooth surfaces are created. Average bending stiffness, medium hardness, low natural durability. Wood contains pinosylvin, a fragrant essential oil with a fungicidal effect.
There are indications that Swiss stone pine wood has positive effects on the human organism, in particular it is said to reduce the heart rate at night.
Use: Interior wood, esp. for the construction of beds and bedrooms. Sculptures, woodturning articles
| Sources: |
Wood information service leaflet series GOTTWALD (1970) Wood identification of the most important commercial timbers WAGENFÜHR (1996) Wood atlas |
