Bosse

Bosse (Leplaea cedrata (formerly Guarea cedrata))

Common names: Bosse, Nigerian pearwood, Light Guarea

Distribution :  West and Central Africa

Color/appearance : Heartwood initially a pale pinkish brown, darkening with age to a more golden to medium brown. Pale yellowish sapwood is well defined. Can be highly figured, with grain patterns such as pommelle being sought after in veneer form.

Janka hardness: 940 lbf

Density: 3.08 lb/b.f.

Shrinkage: 1

Radial (thickness): 4.4%

Tangential (width): 6.7%,

Volumetric (total): 11.2%,

T/R Ratio (width to depth): 1.5

Allergies/Toxicity: Although severe reactions are quite uncommon, bosse has been reported as a sensitizer. Usually most common reactions simply include eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation, as well as a number of other effects, such as asthma-like symptoms, nausea, and headaches.

Sustainability (listing):

CITES: NO

IUCN: YES

Common Uses: Veneer, furniture, cabinetry, inlay, flooring, boat-building, and turned objects.