Color/Appearance: Heartwood is usually jet-black, with little to no variation or visible grain. Occasionally dark brown or grayish-brown streaks may be present.
Sharply demarcated sapwood is pale gold color.
Grain/Texture:Grain is usually straight, but can sometimes be interlocked; fine uniform texture and good natural luster.
Rot Resistance:Heartwood is rated as very durable; poor insect/borer resistance.
Workability: Tends to be rather difficult to work, due to its high density, blunting effect on cutters, and its occasionally interlocked grain. The wood is also prone to checking and splitting during drying, and drying defects are not uncommon. The wood is excellent for turned objects.
