Thread: Pink Tamarind

Can't talk about the timber but would suggest you wear a dustmask when sawing it in any case; I've sawn a couple of species regarded as "fish poison", and tend to be numb around the tongue and mouth for a day or so after cutting them. No worse then a trip to the dentist I suppose but it might have longer term effects if you were to cut a lot of it.

At first I was thinking ferny-tamarind (Sarcotoechia serrata), a well protected rainforest species. One site I viewed says your tree wood is suitable for tool handles and is a tree to 30m with 50cm dbh. So you probably have a fairly mature specimen.

I'd say worth it. The whiter Tamarind is good, the pink even better. I've seen a beautiful small fluted vase thingy made from a branch only 50mm dia and it was gorgeous

I'm familiar with the living tree and its distinctive fruit but not the wood. Saponins can stun fish by reducing oxygen levels -- not necessarily a poison, but the name suggests caution for allergens. Morris Lake (2006) "Australian trees and shrubs - common and scientific names and toxic properties" does not mention the species as being toxic. I would say it is definitely worth felling and milling. Put some on the forum for sale, I'll bid for some! Always willing to try a new timber.


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