Kokobolo

The timber

Cocobolo is yielded by two to four closely related species of the genus Dalbergia, of which the best known is Dalbergia retusa. Dalbergia retusa is a plant species in the family Fabaceae. It is a fair-sized tree, reported to reach 23-24 metres in height and one metre in diameter. The heartwood is usually orange or reddish-brown, often with darker irregular traces weaving through the wood. The heartwood changes color after being cut and can be polished to a lustrous, glassy finish.

Chemistry and allergy

The high natural oil content of the heartwood makes it difficult to achieve a strong glue joint and can inhibit the curing of some varnishes. The oil can induce allergic reactions if inhaled or exposed to unprotected skin and eyes. The allergenic chemicals include S-4'-hydroxy-4-methoxy dalbergione, R-4-methoxy dalbergione, and other quinones and phenols. Dalbergia species are notorious for causing allergic reactions because of sensitizing quinones in the wood. Retusin, an O-methylated flavonoid, is produced by the tree.

Range and conservation

Dalbergia retusa is found in Pacific regions of Central America, ranging from Colombia through Central America to southern Mexico. Because of the high value of the timber, the trees yielding it have been heavily exploited, so they have become rare outside of national parks, reserves, and plantations. Only small amounts of this wood reach the world market, and it is expensive. Dalbergia retusa is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Uses

Because cocobolo stands up well to repeated handling and exposure to water, a common use is for gun grips, knife handles and duck calls. Cocobolo is also favored for fine inlay work on custom, high-end cue sticks, police batons, pens, brush backs, bowls, pipes, jewelry boxes, desktops and other expensive specialty items. It is used to make musical instruments such as oboes, flutes and clarinets.

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