Kamagong

Kamagong or "Mabolo" is a fruit tree found only in the Philippines, the wood of which is extremely dense and hard, and famous for its dark color. It belongs to the ebony family (genus Diospyros), and like many other very hard woods is sometimes called "iron wood" so called because its wood is iron-like and nearly unbreakable, hence the term "ironwood". The word Mabolo is Filipino for hairy and describes the fruit's hairy exterior.

Growth

The tree is grown for its rich-tasting fruit as well as its beautifully grained black timber, which is used in furniture making, and as wooden practice weapons.

Governance

It is an endangered tree species and protected by Philippine law - it is illegal to export kamagong timber from the country without special permission from the Bureau of Forestry, Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Applications

Finished products from kamagong wood, such as fine furniture and decoratives can be exported provided that they are properly documented and approved by the Customs authorities.