Spotlight On: Caribbean Heart Pine/Honduras Pitch Pine
Pinus caribaea
Species: Pinus caribaea
Origin: Honduras
Common Applications: Serves as a substitute for reclaimed heart pine and longleaf pine, flooring, plywood, veneer, plywood, paper (pulpwood) and construction lumber.
Characteristics/Appearance: Straight grained with a medium to coarse texture. It works very well with most tools. Strong density and has large resin canals, numerous and evenly distributed, mostly solitary.
Janka Hardness Scale: 1280 lb_f (see chart on page 19)
Comments: Caribbean Heart Pine is also widely used for engineering purposes. Products include power piles, framing, laminated beams and even playground equipment.
Frequently asked questions
What is Caribbean Heart Pine used as a substitute for?+
Caribbean Heart Pine (Pinus caribaea) serves as a substitute for reclaimed heart pine and longleaf pine. It is commonly used for flooring, plywood, veneer, paper (pulpwood) and construction lumber.
Where does Caribbean Heart Pine come from?+
Caribbean Heart Pine, also known as Honduras Pitch Pine, originates from Honduras. Its botanical name is Pinus caribaea.
What are the grain and texture characteristics of Caribbean Heart Pine?+
Caribbean Heart Pine is straight grained with a medium to coarse texture. It has strong density and large resin canals that are numerous, evenly distributed and mostly solitary.
What is the Janka hardness rating of Caribbean Heart Pine?+
Caribbean Heart Pine has a Janka hardness rating of 1280 lbf.
What engineering applications is Caribbean Heart Pine used for?+
Caribbean Heart Pine is widely used for engineering purposes including power piles, framing and laminated beams. It is also used to make playground equipment.
How well does Caribbean Heart Pine work with tools?+
Caribbean Heart Pine works very well with most tools. Its straight grain and medium to coarse texture contribute to its workability.