Cape Beech
Hard Pear
Cottonwood
Cape Beech
American Cherry
White Alder
Zambezi Teak
Cape Beech (Rapanea melanophloeos)

Distribution: "Boekenhout" occurs from the Cape Peninsula to East Africa.

Timber Qualities: Has a white to dull pinkish-brown color, a short reticulated grain and is fairly hard, heavy and elastic but strong. (Weight 1153kg/m3 green, 785kg/m3 air-dry). Average linear shrinkage from green to air-dry is 5% across the grain. Because of uneven shrinkage with surface checking it requires a mild kiln drying schedule (20 days per 25mm). Saws easily, planes and turns well, glues well and has a handsome polish.

Uses: Is moderately durable and is used for furniture, panelling, cabinet making and musical instruments.