Almácigo
Scientific name: Bursera graveolens
Overview
Almácigo, scientifically known as Bursera graveolens, is a tropical hardwood native to parts of the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. It is part of the Burseraceae family, which includes several aromatic tree species.
While the tree is often associated with its resin and aromatic properties, the wood itself is used in light construction, carving, and general utility work. It is a moderately lightweight hardwood with good workability and a simple, natural appearance.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Almácigo
- Scientific Name: Bursera graveolens
- Region: Caribbean & West Indies Hardwoods
- Tree Size: 40–80 ft tall, 1–3 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 30–40 lbs/ft³
- Janka Hardness: Not widely documented (estimated light to medium)
- Color: Pale yellow to light brown
- Grain: Straight
- Texture: Medium
- Natural Luster: Low to moderate
Identification Characteristics
Almácigo is typically a pale yellow to light brown wood with a relatively uniform appearance. The grain is generally straight, and the texture is medium, giving it a simple and natural look when worked.
It does not display dramatic figure, making it more of a utility wood than a decorative species.
Key identification traits include:
- Light yellow to pale brown color
- Straight grain structure
- Medium texture
- Uniform appearance with minimal contrast
- Subtle natural luster
Working Properties
Almácigo is easy to work due to its relatively low density and straight grain, making it suitable for a range of light woodworking applications.
- Machines easily with hand and power tools
- Sands quickly to a smooth surface
- Glues and finishes without difficulty
- Lightweight and easy to shape
- Not ideal for heavy structural use
Safety Note
There are no widely reported significant health concerns associated with Almácigo wood. As with all woodworking, proper dust collection and protective equipment are recommended.
Common Uses
Almácigo is typically used in light-duty and regional woodworking applications.
- Carvings
- Small wooden objects
- Utility woodworking
- Light construction
- Traditional crafts
Sustainability & Notes
Bursera graveolens is not listed under CITES and is relatively widespread across tropical regions. The tree is also known for its aromatic resin, which is used in incense and traditional applications.
The wood is secondary in importance compared to the tree’s aromatic properties.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Gumbo-Limbo (Bursera simaruba) – Similar genus and lightweight characteristics
Bois d’Inde (Pimenta racemosa) – Smaller species with more botanical importance
West Indian Boxwood (Casearia guianensis) – Denser with much finer texture
Related Guides
How to Identify Exotic Hardwood by Grain Pattern
Understanding grain patterns helps identify simpler woods like Almácigo that lack strong visual contrast.
Drying & Acclimating Exotic Woods
Proper drying is important for lightweight woods to prevent warping and movement.
How to Store Exotic Wood Samples
Learn how to properly store and preserve wood samples for long-term stability.
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Almácigo is a supporting species in a wood collection, valued more for its regional representation than for visual figure or density. It provides a useful contrast to heavier and more decorative tropical hardwoods.
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When submitting photos, please include the common name, scientific name (if known), a brief description, and any information you would like us to share with the image.
Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of an ongoing effort to document and preserve wood samples from around the world.
Learn more about contributing to the collection:
Resources
Authoritative botanical and forestry references used in compiling information about this species include:
• USDA Forest Service – Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineering Material
https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/products/publications/
• The Wood Database – Global reference for wood identification, physical properties, and woodworking characteristics
https://www.wood-database.com/
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online – Botanical taxonomy and species distribution database
https://powo.science.kew.org/
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List) – Global conservation status assessments
https://www.iucnredlist.org/
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – International trade regulations for protected plant species
https://cites.org/
Additional forestry publications, academic research papers, and regional timber studies may also be referenced where available.
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Availability & Where to Buy
Exotic hardwood availability can vary significantly depending on region, sustainability regulations, and supplier inventory.
As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
Lumber Suppliers:
Availability varies — see the Where to Buy Exotic Woods page for current sources.
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