Zanthoxylum flavum
Specifications
Family
Rutaceae
Species
Zanthoxylum flavum Vahl
west indian satinwood
yellowheart
yellowwood
Description
The sapwood is light grayish, while the heartwood is golden yellow, oily in appearance, fine in texture, and wavy in grain, with a coconut odor when fresh. The density is around 0.90. Processing must take into account the high mineral content.
Plant morphology
It is a thorny tree, up to 8-14 m tall, with wrinkled, dark gray bark. The trunk, branching even from the base, has a diameter of 30-40 cm. All parts of the plant have an unpleasant odor. The leaves are pinnately compound and leathery. The inflorescence is a terminal raceme, consisting of small yellowish flowers. The fruit is a wrinkled, dehiscent capsule containing a single, glossy black seed.
Natural occurrence
Countries of origin and distribution
Central America and the Antilles.
Habitat and ecology
A heliophilous deciduous species, it is characteristic of secondary formations on fertile soils at the base of slopes.
Uses
Application areas
It is used in furniture, fine carpentry, furnishings, decoration, and veneers.
Threats and Conservation
Threats
This species has long been heavily exploited for its timber. The fruits are susceptible to attack by certain insects, such as the Apion martinizi beetle, which damages most seeds, while the Leptostylus argentatus (tree borer) beetle can cause the plant to die.
Conservation measures
This species is present in some protected areas and in six ex situ collections (BGCI 2019). Its habitat needs to be protected.
IUCN Red List
IUCN
VU - Vulnerable
CITES. Year of assessment
CITES
2019
1975
2050
CITES Italia • Ultimo aggiornamento
2019
Not present.
Technical data
Aesthetic characteristics
Grain
Slightly obvious
Texture
Fine
Physical and mechanical properties
Density
ρ
ρ
900
kg/m3
Miscellaneous
Given the state of conservation of the stands in nature, it is advisable to avoid the use of this wood.