Names and distribution: Sucupira or Sucupira preta belongs to the legume family (Fabaceae). The exact botanical name is Diplotropis purpurea, D. martiusii or Bowdichia nitida (synonym). The medium-sized trees are widespread in tropical South America.
Wood appearance: The heartwood is brown-red – chocolate brown and streaked with yellowish veins. The pores are clearly visible; annual rings are inconspicuous.
Properties: durable, heavy and hard. Mechanical processing: difficult, but good for planing and polishing. The density at 12% wood moisture is approx. 0.98 t/m3.
Use: High-quality construction timber, flooring, furniture construction.
Source: Richter & Dallwitz (2000) Commercial timber
ATIBT/CTFT (1990) Atlas de Maderas Tropicales de América Latina
Note: according to the latest findings, but excluding any liability
