CANDLEWOOD | Kershout | Pterocelastrus Tricuspidatus
The Tree
This is a very variable tree or shrub depending on habitat. In forests it may reach 20m with a straight trunk, on forest margins it is often a low spreading tree and in an open situation or in coastal scrub it grows as a fairly dense bush. The trunk is grey- or reddish-brown, corky and fissured.
In forests, it may reach 20m with a straight trunk
Beautiful ribbon-like grain
Wood is durable, used for veneers, paneling, flooring, turnery
The Wood
The heavy and hard pink to dark-red or mahogany brown wood has a beautiful ribbon-like grain and can be planed and polished to good effect. Heartwood is dark reddish-brown to purplish, distinguishable from the lighter sapwood.
![](https://www.geoparkes.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/candlewood-grain-384x360.jpg)
Workability
Although candlewood is heavy and hard, it cuts easily, but is difficult to plane. It finishes smoothly, glues, finishes and turns well. Also peels fairly easily for decorative veneers.
![](https://www.geoparkes.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/candlewood-furniture-480x360.jpg)
Uses
The wood is durable and has been used for veneers and panelling, as well as for flooring and heavy tool handles, and turnery.