STANDARD NAME

LARAN

(Light Hardwood)

Anthocephalus chinensis

Rubiaceae

Common in the lowland forests near streams.

Sapwood is not differentiated from the heartwood, which is white with a yellow tinge and darkening to creamy yellow on exposure.

Grain is straight.

Texture is moderately fine and even.

Vessels are medium-sized and open, few or moderately few, solitary and in radial groups of 2 to 3, the groups predominating.

Wood parenchyma is rather sparse, just visible with a hand lens as diffuse strands, occasionally in tangential series of 2 to a few strands between the rays and as very occasional strands associated with the vessels.

Rays are moderately fine.

Air-Dry Density:                                        370 - 465 kg/m3
Shrinkage       Radial:                                 0.8 %
                Tangential:                             2.1 %

Seasoning : Dries fairly rapidly with very little degrade

Recommended Kiln Schedule : H

Strength Group:                                 D
Static Bending MOE:                                     7,700 - 9,300 N/mm2
                  MOR:                                  50 - 73 N/mm2
Compression Strength 
                Perpendicular To Grain:                 n.a.
                Parallel To Grain:                      27.90 - 43.50 N/mm2
Shear Strength:                                 6.40 - 7.80 N/mm2

Non-durable

Very easy

Planing: Easy
Finish: Smooth

Boring: Easy
Finish: Smooth

Turning: Easy
Finish: Slightly rough

Nailing: Excellent

Suitable for plywood manufacture, packing cases, wooden sandals, toys and disposable chopsticks.