Trade Names: Golden Madrone, Musk Burl, Medang
Country of origin: Southeast Asia
Occurrence: Probably China, Vietnam, possibly Laos and Cambodia. Musk Burl is also known in Australia and Tasmania, the botanical name is Olearia argophylla, but it does not seem to be the same species.
Uses: High-quality interior finishes. As it is a species that has been introduced to Europe only a few years ago, it is still very little known compared to other burl woods.
Character: The wood has a very velvety surface with pronounced and coarser grain growth. This results in an intense three-dimensional and particularly decorative appearance after surface treatment. The image of the polished out burl growth is gigantic and unique. When polished out, the grain pattern achieves a depth that is unlike any other wood in form.
Special Features: Golden Madrone belongs to a subspecies of the laurel family. It has a noticeable but subtle menthol odor when worked.