Bocote (Cordia gerascanthus) grows in Mexico and Central South America. Bocote is available only in small amounts because the trees do not grow large in diameter. Hard and heavy, it has a medium density and works very well. Its colour ages from bright golden yellow to warm dark brown, the attractive figure is accentuated with black stripes, sometimes highly figured with birds eyes. The wood appears oily with a medium lustre. Bocote takes an outstanding finish and it is one of the most sought after woods in knife making and turning. With its striking zebra-like contrasts and wild grain, Bocote is a very eye-catching wood. By joining two mirrored planks or veneers, very striking symmetrical grain patterns can be created. Bocote is used for its aesthetic qualities and less for its mechanical properties, and although bocote is by no means soft, its weight is only about 850 kg/m3.
