Bocote - (Cordia elaeagnoides) - is a hard, dense, and fairly oily tropical wood that is highly prized for its dramatic, wild striping. These dark brown or black streaks, which sometimes form in concentric circles, give Bocote its defining look and lend finished products a truly distinctive appearance. The heartwood of Bocote ranges in color from brown to golden brown — with, of course, those telltale dark streaks weaving throughout — and its sapwood is yellowish. Bocote's grain can vary widely, from straight to interlocked. Bocote is a heavy wood, with a specific gravity ranging between 0.63 to 0.84, as well as dense (about 48 to 65 lbs. per cubic foot).
It can be somewhat difficult to dry, tending to develop surface checking and end splitting, but it's also quite resistant to decay. Bocote is fairly easy to work with (due to its natural oils, though, it is sometimes difficult to glue), and polishes to a smooth finish.
Also known as "Mexican Rosewood," Bocote is indigenous to Central America, South America, and, of course, Mexico. The trees, known scientifically as Cordia elaeagnoides, are typically medium sized, but can reach heights of about 100 feet.
It can be somewhat difficult to dry, tending to develop surface checking and end splitting, but it's also quite resistant to decay. Bocote is fairly easy to work with (due to its natural oils, though, it is sometimes difficult to glue), and polishes to a smooth finish.
Also known as "Mexican Rosewood," Bocote is indigenous to Central America, South America, and, of course, Mexico. The trees, known scientifically as Cordia elaeagnoides, are typically medium sized, but can reach heights of about 100 feet.