Trade names: Bloodwood, Satiné
Country of origin: South America
Occurrence: Bloodwood is native throughout northern South America, its distribution extending into the Amazon Basin. The tree grows in the rather dry rainforest and also in drier areas of the Amazon basin. It grows 30 to 40 meters high and reaches diameters up to 65 cm. The best qualities grow in French Guiana.
Uses: Because the heartwood has an intense red color, Bloodwood is used for many decorative purposes, such as high quality furniture, both in solid wood and veneer, woodturning items, knife handles, inlay work, and more.
Character: The heartwood of Bloodwood is deep red in color with partial yellowish streaks and a beautiful golden sheen. The light yellow sapwood is sharply set off from the heartwood. The texture is varied, mostly finely set.
Special Features: Satin/Bloodwood is very durable and polishes well to a high gloss. Since the heartwood is usually only available in small sections, it is used for appropriate work, such as making sport bows, inlay work, or fishing rods. Together with the sapwood, it is used for a variety of different works where its durability proves to be an advantage.