It goes unnoticed by many gardeners until the bird cherry is literally under attack. We are talking about the wood of this plant. Although it likes to recede into the background, it is of great importance.
The most important characteristics of bird cherry wood
Under the dark gray bark is the wood of the bird cherry. At first glance it is noticeable that the color of the sapwood is strikingly different from that of the heartwood. While the sapwood is light yellowish to almost whitish in color and slightly reddish, the core is yellowish brown to dark brown and has greenish stripes. Compared to other woods, the sapwood of bird cherry is broad.
With its colors, the wood radiates warmth. In addition, it gives off a luster and has a diffuse porous structure. Furthermore, it is described by connoisseurs as soft, light, elastic and easy to split. The following points can give professionals in the field of wood more information:
- Bulk density: 0.51 to 0.56 g/ccm
- Compressive strength: 51 to 56 N/mm2
- Shear strength 12-12.5 N/mm2
The wood, which shrinks little and is easy to bend, also has other properties. It is poisonous, as are the leaves, flowers, bark, and seeds of bird cherry. This is indicated, for example, by its unpleasant bitter almond-like smell. This can be clearly seen when fresh and sometimes has a disruptive effect on this wood.
A wide range of uses
The wood of the bird cherry is extremely valuable for the wood processing industry. It is less suitable for burning. Thanks to its properties, it is easy to process. However, it is less durable compared to cherry wood. It is used, among other things, for turning work and inlay work. For example, walking sticks, furniture, tool handles and musical instruments can be made with it.
tips and tricks
Even if the bird cherry should be infested by the spider moth. The wood retains its shape and quality as it is unattractive for spider moths to eat.
KKF