INTRODUCTION

The common Malaysian name for the tree and timber of Callerya atropurpurea (Leguminosae), used here to cover all species of Fordia and Millettia in Malaysia. Vernacular names applied include jenerek (Peninsular Malaysia), kayu rindu (Peninsular Malaysia), kedang belum (Sarawak) and urat rusa (Peninsular Malaysia). Major species include Fordia albiflora; Callerya atropurpurea, C. vasta; and Milletia decipiens, M. galliflagrans and M. hemsleyana. The sapwood is not sharply differentiated from the heartwood, which is pale orange-brown, streaked with lighter coloured zones of parenchyma.  

Also known as Kayu ujau (Indonesia); Mai sa thon (Laos); Kwe tanyin (Myanmar); and Kasae and Yee-ni-keh(Thailand).

DENSITY

The timber is moderately hard and moderately heavy to heavy with a density of 595-815 kg/m3 air dry.

NATURAL DURABILITY

It is non-durable, liable to be attacked by both fungi and insects.

TEXTURE

Texture is coarse and uneven due to the presence of abundant wood parenchyma. Grain is interlocked.

MACHINING PROPERTIES  

The timber is reported to be slightly difficult to work due to the interlocked grain.

USES

The timber is suitable for medium construction under cover, interior finishing, panelling, mouldings, partitioning, furniture, flooring, packing boxes and crates and ornamental items.

REFERENCES

1. Menon, P. K. B. 1986. Uses of Some Malaysian Timbers. Revised by Lim, S. C. Timber Trade Leaflet No. 31. The Malaysian Timber Industry Board and Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. 48 pp.

2. Wong, T. M. 1982. A Dictionary of Malaysian Timbers. Revised by Lim, S. C. & Chung, R. C. K. Malayan Forest Records No. 30. Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. 201 pp.

credited to : Malaysian Timber Council