- Blue Mahoe
The Blue Mahoe "(
Hibiscus " elatus) is the nationaltree ofJamaica . It is indigenous to theisland and grows quite rapidly, often attaining 20 [m] (66ft) or more in height. In wetterdistrict s it will grow in a wide range of elevations, up to 1200m (4000 ft.) and is often used inreforestation .The tree is quite attractive with its straight
trunk , broadgreen leaves andhibiscus -likeflower s. The attractive flower changescolour as it matures, going from brightyellow to orangered and finally tocrimson .The name Mahoe is derived from a
Carib - Indian word. The ‘blue ’ refers to blue-green streaks in the polishedwood , giving it a distinctive appearance.Uses
The Blue Mahoe is a
beautiful and durable timber that is widely used forcabinet making and also for making decorative objects such aspicture frame s,bowl s andcarving .The inner
bark of the tree is often referred to asCuba bark because it was formerly used for tying bundles ofHavana cigars . Cuba is the only other place where the Blue Mahoe grows naturally.The wood has a musical quality and has been traditionally used in the making of cuatros, (puertorican guitars). Fine boxes, furnitures, inlay works, floors, details, turned pieces, exquisite jewelleries, sculptures, and ancient board games, have been, and demand to be transformed from the Mahoe. Architects, furniture-makers, designers, artists & wood lovers will find a charm in working with this wood. It has fine sanding and turning qualities, and a natural gloss in the wood when finely finished.
[http://www.eyeontherainforest.org/bluemahoe.php Tropic Ventures Rainforest Enrichment and Sustainable Forestry Project] is registered under the Auxiliary Forest Program of Puerto Rico, and is a demonstration project for students and foresters interested in the sustainable management and preservation of tropical rainforest land. The sustainably grown and harvested hardwood currently available from experimental thinnings is the rare and exotic Blue Mahoe, "Hibiscus elatus/Talipariti elatum". [http://www.eyeontherainforest.org/bluemahoe.php] [http://www.eyeontherainforest.org/termitetestbluemahoe.php]
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