Origin: Africa

Family

Leguminosae

Scientific name
Gossweilerodendron balsamiferum Harms

Trade and local names
Tola, Tola branca (Port.); Tola (Fr.) Agba (Ing.); White tola; Nigerian cedar.

Physical properties

Density at 12% (kg/m³)	480	Light
Tangential Radial Shrinkage (%)	5.75 2.53	Low Low

Mechanical properties

Static bending Breaking strength (N/mm²)	94	Medium
Axial compression Breaking strength (N/mm²)	39	Low
Hardness (kN)	1.7	Low

Durability

Moderately durable. Susceptible to fungi and wood borer insect attack.

Technological properties

• Workability: works with ease, using both mechanical and manual equipment. When preparing the logs for cutting or spreading, problems may arise due to sporadic gum ball formation.
• Seasoning: relative easy and quick drying as Nigerian cedar is not very given to splinting and warping. In kill-drying, low temperature is advisable to prevent excess gum formation.
• Finish: excellent paint, lacquer and polishing finish, as long as later gum formation is prevented.
• Gluing: satisfactory gluing qualities.

Main uses
• Lining and panelling.
• Construction: particularly for woodwork and shipbuilding.
• Furnishing: car interior.
• Cabinetry: solid wood or veneer.
• Other: widespread use in plywood and laminated timber production for manufacturing furniture.