Scientific Name:
Couratari oblongifolia Ducke & R. Knuth., Lecythidaceae. Couratari guianensis Aubl.
Other Names and Related Species:
Imbirema, Estopeiro, Toari, Tauari-Amarelo, Rauari-Morrão. Other species of the Couratari (C. guianensis, C. pulchra, C. sfellafa and C. ofigantna) genus have similar types of wood and are also sold under the name of Tauari.
Foreign Nomenclature:
Bounaro, Coatari, Coco Cabuyo, Guarataro, Inguipipa (Colombia).
Description of the Tree:
Commercial height ranging from 9 to 16 m with diameters between 50 and 75 cm; it has roots up to 10 m tall. Its trunk is straight and cylindrical, with a smooth and slightly cracked bar.
Wood Characteristics:
Heartwood and sapwood are indistinguishable in color, lightly pinkish straw-white. Straight grain, medium texture; smooth to the touch surface and slightly glossy; imperceptible smell and taste. In some species the wood has an unpleasant and strong smell, which is evident a few days after cutting.
Region of Occurrence:
The various species of the Couratari genus are scattered throughout the Amazon region.
Physical-Mechanical Properties:
The characteristics of the Tauari wood allow it to be classified as having medium specific mass, mechanical strength and retractability.
Behavior During Drying:
The air-drying speed is moderate, with a slight tendency to warp and crack on the surface. Artificial drying is fast, with no significant defects.
Workability:
Tauari wood is moderately soft to cut, presenting a good finish, although the surface sometimes appears fuzzy. Some species have silica, which contributes to the wear and tear of tools.
Suggested Uses:
Plywood panels, packaging, curved and turned parts, general-purpose furniture and interior parts in civil construction (frames, casements, linings, skirting boards, paneling and the like). It is also used in the production of sports goods and toys, pencils, matchsticks, reels and spools.
Source: REMADE