Makore
Common Name(s): Makore, douka, cherry mahogany
Scientific Name: Tieghemella heckelii (and T. africana)
Distribution: Western and Middle Africa (from Sierra Leone to Gabon)
Tree Size: 180-200 ft (55-60 m) tall,
4-6 ft (1.2-1.8 m) trunk diameter
Average Dried Weight: 43 lbs/ft3 (685 kg/m3)
Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): 0.55, 0.69
Janka Hardness: 1,200 lbf (5,350 N)
Modulus of Rupture: 16,330 lbf/in2 (112.6 MPa)
Elastic Modulus: 1,552,000 lbf/in2 (10.71 GPa)
Crushing Strength: 8,290 lbf/in2 (57.2 MPa)
Shrinkage: Radial: 5.5%, Tangential: 7.7%,
Volumetric: 12.4%, T/R Ratio: 1.4
Color/Appearance: Heartwood pink or reddish brown, sometimes with streaks of mild color variation. Yellowish sapwood can be two to three inches wide, and is clearly demarcated from the heartwood. Figured grain patterns (such as mottled or curly) are a common occurrence.
Grain/Texture: Grain generally straight, though interlocked or wavy grain is sometimes present. Fine, even texture with good natural luster.
Rot Resistance: Heartwood is very durable, and is also resistant to insect attack.
Workability: Generally easy to work, though sections with interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing or other machining operations. Makore will react when put into direct contact with iron, becoming discolored and stained. Makore also has a pronounced blunting effect on cutters due to its high silica content. Besides this dulling effect, makore turns well, and is easy to glue and finish.
Odor: No characteristic odor.
Allergies/Toxicity: Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, makore has been reported to cause eye, throat, and skin irritation, as well as headache, giddiness, and central nervous system and blood effects. See the articles Wood Allergies and Toxicity and Wood Dust Safety for more information.
