Common Name: Greenheart
Scientific Name: Chlorocardium rodiei
Wood Appearance: A highly prized tropical hardwood primarily found in Guyana. The heartwood typically presents a light olive to brown color, often with distinctive darker streaks. Over time, upon natural weathering, it develops an attractive silver-grey patina. The sapwood is yellowish-green and can be challenging to distinguish from the heartwood. The wood possesses a fine to medium-fine texture and a grain that varies from straight to interlocking. It often exhibits a very attractive natural luster. When freshly cut, Greenheart has a strong aromatic scent, which dissipates as the wood dries, becoming odorless and tasteless.
Physical Properties: Greenheart is renowned as one of the strongest and densest woods globally, so dense that it sinks in water. Its average dried weight is approximately 1,010 kg/m³ (63 lbs/ft³). A unique attribute of Greenheart is its “Class A” fire rating, making it nearly as fire-resistant as concrete or metal.5 This exceptional fire resistance, combined with its natural oils, provides added peace of mind for consumers utilizing the wood in various projects. The wood exhibits very low movement in length, approximately 1%, indicating high dimensional stability, although movement in service is rated as medium.
Mechanical Properties: Greenheart’s mechanical properties are exceptional, positioning it as a top-tier structural timber. It is reported to be three to five times stronger than many domestic wood species in the USA. Its strength is comparable to, and in some aspects surpasses, European Oak, with a strength testing spectrum rating of D70. The bending strength (Modulus of Rupture) is notably high at 26,200 psi, with specific measurements at 12% moisture content showing 26,200 psi. The modulus of elasticity (MOE) ranges from 2,310 to 3,040 (1,000 psi) at 12% MC, indicating superior stiffness. Crushing strength is also very high, reported at 13,040 psi at 12% MC.9 these values demonstrate a compatible performance with common wood species used in civil construction.
Uses: Greenheart’s unparalleled strength, density, and natural durability make it the timber of choice for the most extreme conditions. It is extensively used in marine and heavy construction, including dock pilings, marinas, piers, boardwalks, lock gates, bridges, fender systems, and general structural work. Its resistance to marine borers makes it ideal for both saltwater and freshwater applications. Beyond large-scale construction, it is also utilized for flooring, decking, boatbuilding (keelsons, beams, planking), and specialized items such as fly fishing rods, billiard cue butts, walking sticks, and chemical vats.