Sucupira preto, also known as tatabu, is the name of the wood of a tree (Diplotropis purpurea) that grows in Brazil, Suriname and Guyana. The tree often grows to a height of 30 - 40 m and can reach trunk diameters of 60 - 100 cm. The wood of this huge tree is hard and heavy, weighing approx. 900 kg/m3 when dried. The wood has a brown color, is quite coarse-pored and shows a striking striped, alternating grain pattern. The heartwood darkens after contact with oxygen and develops the familiar dark chocolate brown. Sucupira preto is a very hard type of wood that is ideal for furniture, stairs and interior and exterior cladding. Sucupira is also a popular type of wood for wooden flooring, handicrafts and woodturning. The veneer is also in demand for high-quality furniture, vehicle interiors and wall paneling.
