Botanically, Guatambu (Balfourodendron riedelianum) belongs to the Rutaceae family. The species is widespread in tropical South America, especially in Argentina and neighboring countries. Guatambu has an above-average presence in Paraquay’s forests, and exports are controlled in terms of quantity.
The heartwood of Guatambu is pale yellow with variations from maple white to eggshell yellow. The wood is homogeneous, simple and unobtrusive, the grain is straight. The pores are fine and scattered. Guatambu is also called Paran maple because of its simple character and light color, in the USA even ivory wood (!).
The density at a wood moisture content of 12% is 0.80 t/cbm. Guatambu has good stability and, despite its hardness, is easy to work, polish and turn. Guatambu is only weather-resistant to a limited extent and should therefore not be used outdoors.
Parquet, turnery, instrument making
Boxwood, maple, birch, …
LINCOLN (1996) World Woods
GOTTWALD (1970) Wood identification of the most important commercial timbers
Note: according to the latest findings, but excluding any liability
