Some tree species feature striking red hues within their wood. This coloration primarily occurs in the heartwood, the dense, inner core of a tree trunk. Shades of red, from subtle pink to deep crimson, are a natural phenomenon. This distinctive appearance makes red-toned woods highly sought after for various applications.
Understanding Red Heartwood
The unique coloration of certain tree species comes from the formation of heartwood. As a tree grows, its older, innermost cells die and fill with organic compounds. These compounds, known as extractives, include substances like tannins, phenols, and other pigments. They accumulate in the heartwood, providing its characteristic color.
These extractives contribute more than just color; they also enhance the wood’s durability and natural resistance. The compounds make the heartwood more resilient to decay, fungi, and insect infestations. This means red heartwood has increased longevity compared to the lighter-colored sapwood, the outer, living portion of the tree.
Trees with Distinctive Red Wood
Many tree species globally have distinctively red heartwood. The Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) produces wood ranging from pale to dark reddish-brown. This tree is native to the Pacific Coast of North America, from southwestern Oregon to central California.
Sapele, or Entandrophragma cylindricum, is another species recognized for its beautiful red wood, displaying golden to dark reddish-brown tones that deepen with age. This tropical hardwood originates from West African rainforests, including Ghana, Nigeria, and Tanzania. Padauk, from several Pterocarpus species, is particularly striking for its bright red or orange color when freshly cut, though it gradually fades to a warm brown in sunlight. These trees are found across Africa and Asia.
Bloodwood (Brosimum rubescens) is aptly named for its vibrant blood-red to deep crimson heartwood, sometimes with darker streaks. This dense hardwood grows in tropical rainforests of Central and South America, including Brazil, Peru, and Suriname. African Mahogany, various Khaya species, offers heartwood color from pale pink to deeper reddish-brown, often with darker striping. These species are widely distributed across West Tropical Africa.
Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) features heartwood that is typically reddish or pinkish-brown to dull brown. This softwood is native to the Pacific Northwest of the United States and Canada. Jatoba, also known as Brazilian Cherry (Hymenaea courbaril), yields wood ranging from a light reddish-brown or orange-brown to a darker brown, which deepens over time. This species thrives in Central and South America, particularly in Brazil.
Valuable Properties and Uses of Red Wood
The natural properties of red heartwood contribute to its diverse applications. The dense structure and natural compounds within these woods enhance their durability and stability. This strength allows them to resist warping and perform well in demanding conditions.
Many red woods also possess natural resistance to decay, fungi, and insect infestations due to their protective extractives. This makes them suitable for outdoor use and environments where moisture or pests are a concern. Beyond functional attributes, the aesthetic appeal of red woods is a primary driver of their demand. Their rich, vibrant colors and often intricate grain patterns make them highly desirable for decorative purposes.
These combined properties lead to a wide array of common uses for red wood. It is frequently employed in furniture and cabinetry, where its beauty and stability are appreciated. Red woods are also popular for flooring and decking due to their durability and resistance to wear. Other applications include boat building, outdoor construction, musical instruments, and decorative veneers.