Ziricote
Ziricote
Cordia spp.
(hard-Wooded, dark-colored Gerascanthus group)
Family
Boraginaceae
Other Common Names
Anacahuite, Baria (Cuba), Siricote, Bocote, Cupane, Amapa asta (Mexico), Canalete (Colombia, Venezuela), Louro pardo (Brazil), Loro negro (Argentina).
Distribution
The several species of this group are found in northern Florida, West Indies, Central America, and southward to Brazil and Argentina.
The Tree
A small to large tree, sometimes 100 ft. tall. In Mexico the trees are found in Tropical Dry zones with precipitation of about 1,000 mm and up to 500 m elevations.
The Wood
General Characteristics
Heartwood tobacco colored to reddish brown, with irregular dark brown or blackish streaks and variegations, with more or less of an oily or waxy appearance; rather sharply demarcated from the grayish or yellowish sapwood. Luster variable; texture fine to medium, grain variable; taste not distinctive; scent mild fragrant, at least when fresh.