BRUSHBOX

The heartwood ranges from rich reddish browns through lighter browns and to pinkish greys. The texture is fine and even with the grain usually showing the characteristic interlocking. This is an attractive feature, particularly in exposed/polished situations such as flooring. The timber is free of gum vein. Considerable movement may be experienced when seasoning the product due to the interlocking grain.

Technical Data

  • Species Name: Brushbox

  • Botanical Name: Lophostemon confertus

  • Size and location information: Brush Box is a large hardwood which grows from the central coast of New South Wales up to Bowen in Queensland. The tree tends to be found on the edge of rainforests, suited to the moist forest conditions and the transition zone between hardwood and rain-forest.

    It has a fibrous, scaly, persistent bark on the lower trunk and a smooth, often pinkish bark above and on the branches. The foliage is bright green. It has also been widely used in residential areas of Sydney for street trees.

  • Density: Green: 1100kg/m3 Dry: 900kg/m3

  • Shrinkage: 5% Radial, 10% tangential

  • Janka Hardness Rating: Green: 7.9, Dry: 9.1

  • Durability: In ground: Class 3 Above ground: Class 3

  • Lyctids Susceptibility: No

  • Termite Resistance (AS3660): Yes

  • Strength Group: S3/SD3

  • Fire Hazard Properties: Ignitability: 14; Spread of flame: 7; Smoke Development: 3

  • Workability: Not easy to work because of its density,interlocked grain, and high silica content. Planer cutting angles need to be reduced. Unsuitable for steam bending. Very resistant to wear and splintering. Natural waxiness can cause adhesion problems.

  • Uses: Flooring, cladding, panelling.

  • Availability: Moderate quantities.