Name AUSTRALIAN RED CEDAR
Toona austalia (Cedrela toona)
Distribution Once found from Sydney to North Queensland.
The Tree One of the largest trees of the Australian rainforests, reported to reach a height of about 60 m and a trunk diameter of 3 m, although trees of this size would be exceptional. One of Australia's few deciduous trees. Bark prominently cracked giving a tesselated appearance. New leaves are pinkish so that early timber getters were able to spot trees in the rain forest. Has long sprays of small white flowers followed by dry fruits up to 2.5cm long. Rapid growing. Trees heavily buttressed
The Timber A handsome dark red although some specimens are pink or even yellowish. Darkens with age. Growth rings are very prominent on back sawn boards. Buttress and crutch timber can be very heavily figured. Has a very distinctive pleasant smell.
Seasoning Seasons fairly quickly but occasionally can be subject to collapse.
Durability Exceptionally durable. Pale sapwood prone to borer attack
Uses Top quality cabinet and furniture work, interior panelling, veneers, turning and carving, boat building, cigar boxes. Was used in railway carriages in early days of plenty.
Availability Now a rare timber. A good tree can be seen growing in the Adelaide Botanical Gardens
Working Qualities Easy to work and takes a high polish. Bends well. Fairly soft and bruises easily
Availability Now a rare timber. A good tree can be seen growing in the Adelaide Botanical Gardens
by Keith Newbury, Newsletter of Woodgroup South Australia
42 Courtney Street, North Melbourne
Victoria, 3051, Australia
