Working Properties: The wood is difficult to saw and bore; where severely interlocked grain is not present, the wood planes to a smooth surface. Because of its high density and oily nature, the wood glues poorly.

Durability: The timbers have a reputation for being very durable. Laboratory tests also show the heartwood to be very durable in resistance to both brown-rot and white rot fungi. The wood has excellent weathering characteristics.

Preservation: Heartwood absorption and penetration of treating solutions using both open-tank and pressure-vacuum systems are inadequate. Sapwood is reported to treat well, particularly with a high end-grain exposure.

Uses: Heavy construction, cogs and shafts, barge and dock fenders, flooring, railroad crossties, pulp mill equipment, tool handles, bearings, turnery. A substitute for lignum vitae.