Working Properties: It is reported to be moderately difficult to work but can be finished smoothly with a high natural polish.  Though non-siliceous, there is more than the usual dulling of cutters.

Durability: The heartwood is reported to be highly resistant to attack by decay fungi.

Preservation: Both sapwood and heartwood are highly resistant to preservative treatments.

Uses: Flooring, furniture, interior trim, turnery, railroad crossties.  The tree is well known for its yield of balsam used in perfumes, harvested mainly in El Salvador