Burma Teak

Burma Teak

TREE DATA: Teak trees are reported to attain heights of 130 to 150 feet (39 to 45 m) under favorable conditions. Stems are reported to be often clear of branches to 80 to 90 feet (24 to 27 m) high. Trunk diameters are reported to be often from 36 to 60 inches (90 to 150 cm), and older trees are typically fluted and buttressed. Plantation trees are reported to grow to heights of 150 feet (45 m), and can be ready for harvesting after only 60 years. Teak logs are reported to be very heavy, and are rather difficult to transport. Standing trees are sometimes girdled and left to stand for two to eight years before they are harvested. This practice is reported to allow moisture in the tree to dissipate, and hence make the logs less heavy and easier to transport.

REGION: S.E. Asia.

COUNTRY: Burma.

SAPWOOD COLOR: The clearly demarcated sapwood is white to pale yellow in color.

HEARTWOOD COLOR: The heartwood in its purest form, is a uniform dark golden-brown, without markings. But most other heartwood found in this species is dark golden yellow, which turns into rich brown with darker, chocolate-brown markings upon exposure. There is moderate to high color variation between boards.

COMMON USES: Boat building, Cabinetmaking, Exterior uses, Furniture , Joinery, Paneling, Shipbuilding, Turnery, Garden furniture, Flooring, Furniture components, Parquet flooring, Stairworks, Decks, etc.

MOVEMENT IN SERVICE: Seasoned wood is reported to have very good dimensional stability, and retains its shape well after manufacture.