Bahia (Abura)

Origin: Tropical-equatorial area.

Latin name.
Mitragyna ciliata Aubrev. & Pellegr., M. stipulosa O.Ktze.

Natural vegetation area.
Humid forests of the African tropical-equatorial area, in particular of the western sector.

TRUNK CHARACTERISTICS.
The tree reaches good sizes: height up to 35 metres, with diameter at breast height equal to 90-120 m. The trunk, which has no basal buttresses, is straight and with regular sections.

WOOD APPEARANCE AND CHARACTERISTICS.
The general colour is rosy greyish or darkish, somewhat lighter in the external sapwood ring; in the heart, a dense grain can be identified. The texture features a rather high content of fine mineral particles.

Specific weight.
In the fresh condition 930 kg/m³ on average; after normal seasoning 560 kg/m³

Histological structure.
Fine texture; straight grain.

Shrinkage.
Medium.

Mechanical characteristics.
Axial compression strength 52 N/mm² on average; bending strength 95 N/mm² ; moderate hardness; the impact behaviour is low.

Modulus of elasticity.
9.400 N/mm²

Most frequent structural defects and alteration.
Internal cavities due to the advanced decay of the heart; star cracks; yellowish stains due to fungal attack; insect galleries.

Durability.
Poor with respect to both fungal and insect attack.

 

Texts taken from: “Manuale tecnico del legno”, FNALA CNA LEGNO LEGNO, by Prof. Ing. Guglielmo Giordano.

 

Species available for the following products: