What is basswood?

Tilia americana is a species of tree in the family Malvaceae, native to eastern North America, from southeast Manitoba east to New Brunswick, southwest to northeast Oklahoma, southeast to South Carolina, and west along the Niobrara River to Cherry County, Nebraska.

What are basswood used for?

Basswood is soft and light, valued for hand carving and has other uses including cooperage, boxes, veneer, excelsior, and pulp. Basswood is also a top choice for musical instruments, shutters, specialty products and millwork.

What is another name for basswood?

The name basswood came from a use made by native Americans of using its fibrous, tough inner bark or “bast” for making cords, thongs and ropes. Pioneers dubbed it “bastwood” leading to its common name of today. Its other common name is American Linden. Habitat: Grows on moist upland woods and slopes

Is basswood the same as pine?

Basswood is harder than some pine, but softer than most varieties when ranked on the Janka hardness scale.

Does basswood break easily?

And though the wood is both lightweight and soft, it has an outstanding MOE-to-weight ratio. However, its MOR is on par with its low weight; simply put, when put under stress, the wood will remain stiff, but will still break (rupture) at a relatively average weight.

How can you tell if lumber is basswood?

The sapwood of basswood is usually quite large and creamy white in color, merging into the heartwood which is pale to reddish brown, sometimes with darker streaks. The wood has an indistinct grain that is straight and has a fine, uniform texture.

Where to buy basswood in Namibia?

It is available at Namibia Craft center, Buco Winhoek and within the market of Namibia.