Yellowwood – Fustic – Argentine Osage

Names and distribution: The name “yellowwood” stands for the traditional use of the heartwood for dyeing purposes. The plant itself is known as the dyer’s mulberry tree. Other names are Mora amarilla and Fustic. Botanically, Maclura tinctoria belongs to the Moraceae (mulberry) family. The synonyms Chlorophora tinctoria and Morus tinctoria are also commonly used. The tree is native to Mexico and the Caribbean. The tree can reach diameters of up to 60 cm and heights of up to 20 m.

Wood appearance: The sapwood is narrow and white, the heartwood is yellow, darkening to a copper color in the light. Pores fine, scattered, growth rings barely recognizable. Structure: plain, sometimes also alternately twisted and with a wavy grain. Moderately decorative, similar in color to European Mulberry, darker than Robinia and Osage Orange.

Properties: The spec. The average weight is given as 0.91 t/m³ at a wood moisture content of 12%, depending on the origin also up to 1.05 t/m³. The swelling and shrinkage values are estimated to be radial 3.4% and tangential 5.4%, both relatively low values. Technical drying is rarely carried out. Despite its high density and hardness, it is easy to work in all directions, especially good for turning and carving. Shiny surfaces are created. Good elasticity (modulus of elasticity 14,600+ N/mm²), high hardness, good natural durability, Morin and Maklurin dyes are used commercially for natural textiles.

Use: Special wood for heavy constructions, for sculptures, wood for making longbows / sport bows and as wood for turning.