Pterocarpus rotundifolius subsp. rotundifolius trunk

The trunk of Pterocarpus rotundifolius subsp. rotundifolius has to be substantial when it achieves its rarest heights aroundf 20 m. The tree is often multi-stemmed with grey to brown bark. It is quick-growing.

Stem surfaces may be smooth when young or rough with longitudinal fissuring and some flaking later. Brown and grey shades are present on the stem in picture. In the Kruger National Park small stands of wispy stems that don’t seem ever to achieve much in size are often seen.

The wood is light-coloured with a grain that has been described as attractive, by others as featureless. It does not have a great reputation as timber. Difficult to saw and not very durable, otherwise said to work well and used as general timber, although more commonly for household utensils. Objections sometimes relate to the smallness of the pieces obtainable, or maybe to the unpleasant smell it exudes when cut (Coates Palgrave, 2002; Schmidt, et al, 2002).