DESCRIPTION: An exotic wood that is bright red to reddish or purplish brown, with rather distinct stripes. The sapwood is clearly distinct from the heartwood, & is almost white in color. It is hard & superior to Teak & probably Mahogany. The wood is exceptionally heavy. The density of the wood is very high. Medium to fine texture that takes finish well, though a sanding sealer helps to get a glassy smooth surface. COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Central America (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua & Panama) BOTANICAL NAME: Platymiscium yucatanum. JANKA HARDNESS: 2450