Spalted Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) has a spectacular heartwood with background colors of ivory, yellow and black lines, which gives an unpredictable landscape effect. Grain is wavy and interlocked with a medium uniform texture. Because of its density and interlocked grain, tamarind’s heartwood is notoriously difficult to work. However, the softer sapwood is somewhat friendlier. Although it has a moderate blunting effect on steel-edged tools, it succumbs easily to carbide. Common uses include small turnings and carvings, inlay, chopping blocks, furniture, flooring and boatwork. Due to the nature of the species, bug and worm holes may be present on some blanks and no two are alike. Much of the wood comes from logs that were found on the forest floor. We recommend taking precautions when working with spalted wood, such as using adequate dust-collection equipment and wearing a personal respirator or mask.

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