Characteristics: This exotic and imported hardwood is NOT a true walnut! The tree is not a member of the Juglandaceae family. The wood itself has a grayish-brown background color with a slight orange-green cast. It contains irregular bands of different color intensity as the width varies. These bands are dark brown to almost black. The sapwood is wide and pale. The grain is interlocked and sometimes wavy.

Common Uses: Most of the tree is cut for veneer. However, it is an excellent wood for turnery - gun stocks - mouldings - cabinet making - doors and marquetry.

Working Properties: This wood takes nails and screws well. It also glues well. New Guinea Walnut takes a good finish and polish. As always, when tools are kept sharp, the wood will work very well with both hand and machine tools. This wood has good steam bending quality.

Common Name: New Guinea Walnut - (Paldao)

Tree is Native To: The growth range of this tree is throughout Southeast Asia and the islands of the Southwest Pacific.

Botanical Classification: Dracontomelon dao

Family: Anacardiaceae

Average Dried Weight: 40 lb/ft.

Average Specific Gravity: .50