Urihi — Identification, Uses and Properties
Sacoglottis obovata Humiriaceae
Valued locally in Brazil and Guyana for heavy structural components and durable boards.
HARDWOOD SOUTH AMERICA HEAVY CONSTRUCTION
Taxonomy & Nomenclature
Botanical Name(s)
Sacoglottis obovata
Family
Humiriaceae
Wood type
Hardwood
Local Names
Urihi (Brazil), Hurihi (Guyana), Redwood (Guyana), Rat shit tree (Guyana), Bofru-udu (Suriname), Kwasikaanasubi (Suriname)
Origin Region
South America
Main End Uses
Heavy construction · Furniture · Boards · Housing · Joinery · Turnery
Wood Identification Guide
Reference Colour
Red to reddish-brown
Texture
Medium to coarse
Grain
Irregular
Sapwood
Narrow and indistinctly demarcated
Notes
Wood identification keys: Heartwood is red to reddish-brown, often with a yellow tint. The wood is very hard, tough, and strong, with an irregular grain that can be difficult to work but finishes smoothly. It is distinguished by its high density and lack of distinct growth rings.
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Log Description
Diameter
60 - 80 cm
Buoyancy
Sinks
Diameter
23.6-31.5 in
Physical & Mechanical Properties
Density
920 g/cm³ @ 12% MC
Density
57.4 lb/ft³
Durability & Treatment
Resistance to Decay
DurableSawing & Machining
Blunting Effect
Moderate to high
Machining Tools
Stellite-tipped suggested
Notes
Hardness makes it difficult to work manually; machine tools are recommended for a smooth finish.Assembling & Finishing
Nailing Screwing
Pre-boring required
CITES & Trade Restrictions
CITES Status
Unlisted
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