Boonaree is usually found as single specimens or in clonal clumps and seems
to grow on any soil type in the region. The trunks of single specimens
sometimes reach to around 600mm diameter like the one pictured which
overhangs the Emerald woodworkers Group shed but they are almost always
piped.
Another typical example in one of Emeralds parks.
The strange looking fruits form around December and pop open to reveal a
bright red aril.
The subspecies alectryon elongata pictured here is also found in the region
though not as common. It is identified by it's comparatively long, narrow
leaves.
Boonaree timber is hard and moderately heavy. I have found it cracks a
bit while drying, even with the endgrain sealed, but appears stable once
dry. It exhibits some impressive colouring where the heartwood is degrading
but then comes the inevitable pipe making it difficult to get large pieces
to work with.
The timber machines nicely and holds detail well. Boonaree doesn't sand
easily but produces an excellent finish if you persist. Any finish works
well on this timber and just one or two applications is enough. Danish Oil
was used on the bowl pictured.
A closed bowl finished with Livos 'Kunos' hard-wax oil which is my
preference these days.
A nicely figured, footed bowl also finished with Kunos hard-wax oil.
