Guide to the Properties and Uses of Southern African Wood

Guide to the Properties and Uses of Southern African Wood is a fully
illustrated, scientifically accurate guide to the characteristics, properties and
uses of wood from 140 southern African tree species. This comprehensive
resource provides essential information for anyone working with or interested
in indigenous timber.

Species treatments include conservation status, traditional and contemporary
uses, mechanical properties, durability, identification features, and
woodworking characteristics, enhanced by comments from experienced
wood users on workability. More than 700 full-colour photographs showcase
tree bark, untreated and treated wood, end-grain macrographs, and finished
worked items, providing complete visual reference material.

The guide explores historical uses, natural distribution, availability and
sustainability of woods, plus practical aspects of harvesting and processing.
Written in an accessible style, this unique commercial reference appeals to
professional woodworkers, designers, architects, wood dealers and collectors,
hobbyists, botanists and anyone fascinated by trees and timber.

Available in both English and Afrikaans (Gids tot die eienskappe en gebruike
van Suider-Afrikaanse Hout), this essential resource celebrates the remarkable
diversity and beauty of southern Africa’s indigenous woods whilst promoting
sustainable utilisation practices.