Common Names:   Black poisonwood Chechem Chechem negro Chechen Poisontree Purchase Chechem

Mechanical Values

Environmental Profile
Although the species may be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery, it is reported to be rather abundant, and secure globally (Source - The Nature Conservancy - Rank of relative endangerment based primarily on the number of occurrences of the species globally).

Distribution
The species is reported to occur in the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Jamaica, northern Guatemala, Belize, and from the Yucatan to Vera Cruz in Mexico. It is reported to be often found growing alongside Sapodilla (Manilkara zapota ) in calcareous soils.

Product Sources
Some materials (lumber and veneer) from this species are reported to be available from environmentally responsible or sustainably managed sources. 

A lesser-known species, Black poisonwood is reported to be currently under consideration and exploration by timber merchants as a possible substitute for more exotic and endangered species. 

Tree Data
The species is reported to grow to the size of a shrub or a fairly large tree. Trees are capable of reaching a height of about 50 feet (15 m), with a trunk diameter of about 21 inches (50 cm). Sap contained in the thin, reddish brown bark is reported to be caustic and should be avoided.

Sapwood Color
The sapwood is yellowish brown in color, and is clearly distinct from the heartwood.

Heartwood Color
The heartwood is described as dark reddish brown, with dark brown stripes and lighter streaks. The color is reported to be somewhat similar to that of Black walnut (Juglans nigra ). Color variation is reported to be rather high within the heartwood. 

Grain
The grain is variable, but it is usually crossed or interlocked. Some slab-cut wood is reported to exhibit a very attractive grain pattern. 

Texture
Texture is typically fine and uniform. 

Odor
There is no odor or taste. 

Luster
The wood is reported to have a golden luster.

Kiln Schedules
T2 - C2 (4/4 - 6/4) US

Movement in Service
Seasoned wood is reported to undergo moderate dimensional changes in response to fluctuations in atmospheric conditions.

T/R Ratio
1.50
This indicator is more meaningful if it is used together with other drying information and actual shrinkage data in the tangential and radial directions. (Refer to the Numerical Values window).

Natural Durability
Heartwood resistance to decay is reported to range from slight to moderate.

Resistance to Impregnation
The material is reported to be resistant to preservative treatment. 

Toxic Constituents
The bark of the tree contains a caustic sap whose effects on the skin are reported to be similar to poison ivy.

Planing
The wood is reported to respond well to sharp tools in most machining operations.

Gluing
The wood is reported to take glues effectively.

Polishing
Polishing properties are reported to be good, and the wood is reported to yield a fine finish.

Staining
The material is reported to take lacquer finishes without problem, but it responds poorly to polyurethane finishes.

Strength Properties
It is moderately hard and resistant to wearing and marring. The species has very high density. 

Comments
The wood is reported to be attractive, but it is very hard, and dense, and has been compared to Brazilian rosewood. Careful selection and matching is reported to be essential because of wide color variations.