Tigerwood stands as a distinctive and popular hardwood, recognized for its dramatic appearance and durability. Often sought for flooring, decking, and fine furniture, this exotic timber brings a unique aesthetic to various applications. Its striking patterns and robust characteristics contribute to its appeal.
Its Native Habitat and Botanical Identity
Tigerwood predominantly originates from the diverse ecosystems of Central and South America. These trees thrive across a wide geographic range, extending from Mexico southward through Central America, and reaching into countries like Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia. Brazil is a significant exporter, particularly of varieties native to the region.
The term “tigerwood” is a commercial designation that encompasses timber from several tree species, primarily within the Astronium genus. The most common species referred to as tigerwood include Astronium fraxinifolium and Astronium graveolens, both belonging to the cashew family (Anacardiaceae). Another prominent species is Goncalo Alves, which is often used interchangeably with tigerwood. While some African trees like Lovoa trichilioides are also sometimes called tigerwood, the primary commercial source for the patterned timber is from the Americas. These trees are typically found in tropical or subtropical forests, inhabiting altitudes ranging from 500 to 3,000 feet, often as major canopy species.
Appearance and Properties Linked to Origin
The characteristic appearance of tigerwood, which gives it its name, features a vibrant reddish-brown or orange background with prominent dark, often black, stripes. These stripes can vary in thickness, ranging from fine lines to bold strokes, creating a visually dynamic and unique pattern that resembles a tiger’s coat. The wood often exhibits a natural luster, sometimes described as having an oily or metallic appearance. Over time, the warm, light colors of tigerwood tend to deepen to a rich reddish-brown, and the dark stripes can become nearly black.
These distinctive aesthetic qualities are directly linked to the specific tree species and their growth conditions in their native habitats. Tigerwood is highly regarded for its exceptional hardness, density, and durability. It boasts a high Janka hardness rating, typically ranging from 1,850 to 2,170 pounds-force, which makes it significantly harder than many common domestic hardwoods. This inherent density and natural oil content contribute to its resistance to moisture, rot, decay, and insect infestations. The robust nature of the wood, developed in its natural environment, allows it to maintain structural integrity and resist warping or splitting.
Journey from Forest to Market
The journey of tigerwood from its natural forest habitat to consumers involves several stages, beginning with harvesting in its native South American forests. Once felled, the timber is transported from remote forest areas to mills for processing. This often entails significant logistical operations to move the heavy, dense logs. After milling into lumber, the wood undergoes drying processes, which can be challenging due to its density, though proper air-drying is crucial for stability.
From the mills, processed tigerwood is then distributed globally, reaching markets for various applications such as flooring, furniture, and decking. The growing popularity of tigerwood has led to increased awareness regarding sourcing practices. Many suppliers now emphasize responsible sourcing and sustainability to mitigate environmental impact. Organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certify tigerwood products, ensuring they come from forests managed to meet economic, social, and ecological standards. This commitment to responsible forestry helps ensure the long-term availability of this distinctive hardwood.