Wood Information
Pen #52 and #66
Redheart (Erythroxylon spp.);
Pale to dark red that will deepen in color with age. Grain is straight and tight. Machines well but
has a tendency to burn. Turns well. Fresh cut material has a bright red look that will darken with
exposure. Central America.
Other Common names: Honduras redwood, zapotillo, chakté-coc, chakté kok (various spellings)
Botanical Name: Erythroxylum spp
Family: Erythroxylaceae
Mature Tree Height, Diameter: 60-80 ft ,  1 1/2 to 2 1/2 ft
Growing Regions: Mexico to Argentina
General Wood Characteristics: Color red or reddish brown, usually with purplish cast, hard and
heavy, grain straight, texture very fine.
Uses: Turnery, knife handles, general construction.
Discussion: Redheart's wonderful color fades rather quickly in direct sunlight. It is very inclined to
have figure, especially fiddle back. This wood must be kiln dried very carefully since it is prone to
checking and other kiln defects. Color holds up better with a UV protective coating.
Harding Pens and Woodturnings
Wood Information
Pen #84