Water Gum (Syzygium buettnerianum) Timber Profile: A Comprehensive Guide

Water Gum (Syzygium buettnerianum) Timber Profile: A Comprehensive Guide

Water Gum, also known as Water Gum, Satinash, or Water Apple, is a valuable tropical hardwood from the Myrtaceae family. Its timber is widely used in Southeast Asia and Oceania and is also known as "Agarwood" or "Pithwood" in some markets. This comprehensive profile provides an in-depth look at its characteristics, uses, and market presence, with a focus on logs from Papua New Guinea (GUW) and the Solomon Islands (EUG).

1. Species Information and Distribution

• Scientific Name: Syzygium buettnerianum

• English Names: Water Gum, Satinash

• Family: Myrtaceae (Myrtle family)

• Primary Origins: Papua New Guinea (log code: GUW) and the Solomon Islands (log code: EUG).

• Regional Distribution: Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, northern Australia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Myanmar.

• Origin Differences: Logs from Papua New Guinea (GUW) are known for better roundness but slightly lower density, while those from the Solomon Islands (EUG) have a higher density with a slightly less uniform shape.

2. Timber Characteristics and Identification

• Bark and Surface: The bark is 0.5–2.0 cm thick. The outer bark is a light reddish-brown and peels off in paper-like sheets. The inner bark is a purplish-reddish brown with strong bast fibers that can be torn into a string-like material, a key identification feature.

• Heartwood and Sapwood: The heartwood is purplish-reddish brown, while the sapwood is a grayish-pinkish brown and is prone to bluing. The sapwood is approximately 4–7 cm wide.

• Physical Properties:

• Air-dry Density: 0.68–0.90 g/cm³, classifying it as a medium to heavy hardwood.

• Durability: High strength, moderate shrinkage, and excellent decay resistance.

• Grain: Interlocked grain with a fine and uniform texture and a weak luster.

• Processing:

• Machining: Moderately difficult to saw and plane, but the finished surface is smooth.

• Fasteners: Excellent nail-holding ability, good gluing, and finishing properties.

• Drying: Dries slowly with a slight risk of cracking, requiring proper stacking and controlled conditions.

3. Key Applications

Due to its stability, high strength, and superior durability, Water Gum is widely used in a variety of sectors:

• Construction: House frames, bridges, railway sleepers, piles, and sleepers (as a substitute for Keruing).

• Furniture & Joinery: Tables, chairs, cabinets, flooring, and interior decoration.

• Marine & Automotive: Decking and vehicle body parts.

• Industrial & Other: Tool handles, plywood, veneer, agricultural tools, and various daily wood products.

4. Market & Trade

Water Gum is primarily imported in bulk from Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. On the market, it is often traded alongside other Syzygium species. Regional trade names vary:

• Malaysia: Kelat

• Vietnam: Tram

• Myanmar: Jaman

• Philippines: Malanthat-puil