Known scientifically as Enterolobium Cyclocarpum, Guanacaste wood is commonly called Parota. Depending on where you live, Guanacaste is also known as rain tree, caro caro, or elephant ear tree. These names are derived from the shape of its seedpods.
Guanacaste trees are primarily found in Mexico and Central America. They are used frequently for wooden furniture design and construction because they feature:
- Dimensions of considerable size
- Gold-brown coloration with neutral tones
- The grain pattern is distinct
- Despite the price increases associated with its popularity, it remains an affordable option.
Tables made from Guanacaste wood are particularly beautiful. There is a honey-like coloration and a reddish hue to the heartwood, along with distinct, cream-like sapwood. For a modern look, Guanacaste furniture can also be made without white sapwood.
unique Guanacaste Wood
There is a particular appeal to the wood grain of Guanacaste, which looks like that of Acacia or Koa. However, it has a more intense texture and more consistent color.
Compared to mahogany or redwood, Guanacaste trees are lighter in density, as they grow much more rapidly. They are therefore ideal for projects or furniture pieces of a large size.
We bring out the grain patterns in Guanacaste using matte finishes which give it a much more natural look when compared to glossy varnishes.
Growth of Guanacaste Wood
An extremely fast-growing tree, Guanacaste can grow enormously tall (65-100 feet) and wide (5-9 feet) in a very short period. Hence, it is suitable for reforestation and for the sustainable production of long wood slabs. The material is also remarkable for its lightweight and less density than most exotic hardwoods, meaning a large slab of Guanacaste is much lighter than other imported woods.
Beautiful Guanacaste Tables from MORUXO Live Edge
At MORUXO Live Edge, we specialize in crafting exquisite tables from Guanacaste wood, also known as Parota. Our tables are not just pieces of furniture; they are works of art that bring the natural beauty of the outdoors into your home. Each table is meticulously crafted to highlight the unique grain patterns and rich tones of Guanacaste wood, ensuring that no two pieces are alike.
Whether you’re looking for a stunning dining table, a versatile occasional table, or a custom piece tailored to your specific needs, our Guanacaste tables offer unparalleled elegance and durability. The honey-like coloration and the reddish hue of the heartwood, combined with the distinct, creamy sapwood, create a visually captivating centerpiece for any room.
We invite you to explore our showroom or browse our online catalog to see the wide variety of designs and customization options available. If you’re feeling inspired but need guidance, our Sales and Design Team is ready to assist you in bringing your vision to life. We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring that your custom Guanacaste table exceeds your expectations.
Don’t wait to transform your living space with a beautiful Guanacaste table from MORUXO Live Edge. Reach out to us today via phone, chat, or email, and let us help you create a unique, sustainable piece of furniture that you will cherish for years to come.
FAQS ABOUT GUANACASTE WOOD
What are the common names of Guanacaste?
Parota, Guanacaste, Enterolobium Cyclocarpum
Where do Guanacaste trees grow?
The wood of Guanacaste trees is mainly found in Central and Northern South America, as well as in South Mexico.
What color is Guanacaste?
The heartwood of the Guanacaste tree is typically light or medium brown, sometimes with a reddish hue or darker streaks. The sapwood of the Guanacaste tree is pale yellow and stands out for its distinct separation from the heartwood.
What’s the appearance of Guanacaste?
The wood grain is like that of Acacia or Koa wood and is characterized by a bold, striking appearance. Its texture is between that of mahogany and redwood.
How durable is Guanacaste Wood?
Guanacaste wood is rated as exceptionally durable and insect-resistant (heartwood is more so than sapwood). This wood is still more resilient than many other hardwoods, such as red oak, which has poor insect resistance and usually stains when it meets water.
Why are slabs of Guanacaste so large?
Guanacaste trees are known for their rapid growth, reaching enormous heights and widths, and producing wood slabs of great size.
What is the average size of a Guanacaste tree?
The Guanacaste tree grows to an average height of 65 to 100 feet, with trunk diameters ranging from 5 to 9 feet.
What is the average weight of dried Guanacaste slabs?
Guanacaste is a light hardwood that weighs just 27 pounds per square foot, about half of the weight of red and white oaks (44–47 pounds per square foot)
What is the grain and texture of Guanacaste wood?
The grain of Guanacaste wood appears to be interlocked and has a textured surface. The natural sheen of Guanacaste wood is medium. The grains of Guanacaste are characterized by multiple solitary rays with a narrow to medium width.
What is the pricing and availability of Guanacaste Wood?
Due to the large trunk size of Guanacaste, large slabs and live-edge cuts of this wood are more readily available and are sustainably sourced. As Guanacaste wood is lighter in size, exporting or importing Guanacaste slabs or furniture is sometimes cheaper. In recent years, however, it has become harder to find large slabs of Guanacaste due to its popularity.
Why is Parota (Guancaste) wood used in the manufacture of canoes and light boats?
Parota wood has become a popular choice for crafting canoes and light boats, primarily due to its exceptional water resistance and impermeability. These qualities make it highly durable when exposed to water, an essential feature for any watercraft. In addition to its impressive strength, Parota wood is known for its resilience, ensuring that boats made from it can withstand the rigors of frequent use and harsh conditions. The long-standing tradition of carpenters and cabinetmakers working with Parota wood, typically passed down through generations, further contributes to the expertise and craftsmanship involved in creating these durable vessels. This combination of intrinsic material qualities and skilled workmanship makes Parota wood an ideal choice for manufacturing reliable, long-lasting canoes and light boats.
What are the traditional and modern uses of Parota (Guanacaste) wood in craftsmanship?
Parota wood, known for its strength and durability, has long been valued in craftsmanship for both traditional and modern applications. Traditionally, this versatile wood has been used to create kitchen tools, agricultural equipment, and even rural constructions. Families often pass down the skill of working with Parota from generation to generation, with carpenters and cabinetmakers learning the trade from their elders. Modern uses of Parota wood have expanded beyond these conventional applications. Today, it is a popular choice for making furniture, decorative elements, and ornaments due to its appealing aesthetics. Parota’s natural water resistance has also led to its use in crafting canoes and lightweight boats, showcasing its durable properties. Additionally, artisans now use Parota for producing toys and turned articles, reflecting its adaptability and enduring appeal in various forms of craftsmanship.
What nutritional value do the seeds of the Parota (Guanacaste) tree have?
The seeds of the Parota tree are a nutritional powerhouse. Each seed-packed fruit, typically containing around 12 seeds, offers a slightly sweet taste and aroma. These seeds are rich in protein, boasting a content of 35%, making them as nutritious as beans. They are also a good source of several essential nutrients, including iron, calcium, phosphorous, and ascorbic acid. Additionally, the seeds are packed with 17 amino acids, contributing to their high nutritional value. Parota seeds can be versatile in their uses. They can be ground into flour comparable to wheat flour and are often used in sauces and soups. In some regions, they serve as a coffee substitute or are toasted for consumption. Furthermore, Parota seeds are not only beneficial for human diets but also serve as an excellent food supplement for livestock.
How is the Parota (Guanacaste) tree used in the food industry?
The Parota tree plays a versatile role in the food industry, thanks to its fruit and seeds. The seeds are noted for their sweet taste and aroma, making them a valuable ingredient. Each fruit typically contains about a dozen seeds, which can be ground into flour that rivals wheat flour in quality. This flour can be used in a variety of culinary applications, from baking to thickening sauces and soups.
In certain regions, Parota seeds serve as a coffee substitute, offering a unique flavor profile. They are also popular in the preparation of sauces and soups. Beyond human consumption, these seeds are a beneficial feed supplement for livestock, providing a nutritious alternative with high protein content—comparable to that of beans. Furthermore, Parota seeds contain an impressive 35% protein, as well as essential nutrients like iron, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin C. They can be eaten toasted, adding a nutritious, crunchy element to diets. In summary, the Parota tree’s seeds are a multipurpose resource in the food industry, utilized in everything from human food products to animal feed.
What are some historical references to the medicinal uses of Parota (Guanacaste)?
Parota has a rich history of medicinal use dating back to pre-Hispanic times. Indigenous communities across the American continent utilized various parts of the Parota plant for healing purposes even before the arrival of Spanish colonizers. This versatile tree offered a range of remedies derived from its fruits, resin, and bark. One significant application involved the gum, or “goma de caro,” exuding from the trunk. This substance was highly valued for its efficacy in treating respiratory conditions like colds and bronchitis. Additionally, it served as an anti-catarrhal agent and was used to address hemorrhoids, diarrhea, and digestive issues. The seeds of the Parota plant are notably easy to germinate, typically sprouting within three to four weeks under natural conditions. This ease of cultivation likely contributed to its widespread use and availability for medicinal applications among indigenous populations.
What medicinal remedies were prepared from the Parota tree?
The Parota tree offers a variety of medicinal uses, thanks to its different parts, namely the fruits, resin, and bark. Here’s how each component contributes to health remedies:
- Gum (Goma de Caro): The gum from the trunk is primarily employed to soothe respiratory conditions like colds and bronchitis. It also serves as an anti-catarrhal agent and is effective against hemorrhoids, diarrhea, and digestive issues.
- Bark: The bark of the Parota tree is useful for purifying the body. It can be made into infusions or used in pods to treat skin conditions such as alforre and salpullido (a type of rash).
- Green Fruits: The unripe fruits have astringent properties, making them useful in treating diarrhea.
In essence, the Parota tree is a multipurpose medicinal resource, addressing a variety of ailments from respiratory problems to digestive issues and skin conditions.
How was the Parota tree used for medicinal purposes in pre-Hispanic times?
Parota trees played a significant role in medicinal practices during pre-Hispanic times. Notably, their seeds were known for their ease of germination, sprouting naturally within three to four weeks. Various parts of the tree, including the fruits, resin, and bark, were utilized in traditional remedies. The gum exuded from the trunk, referred to as “goma de caro,” was particularly valuable for treating respiratory issues, such as colds and bronchitis. Besides its use as an anti-catarrhal agent, this gum was also employed to address hemorrhoids and diarrhea. Furthermore, Parota bark and resin were incorporated into treatments to purify the body and promote better digestion. In summary, the Parota tree’s diverse components provided pre-Hispanic healers with a multifaceted tool for addressing an array of health conditions, showcasing the tree’s versatile medicinal properties.
What are some of the other names for the Parota tree in different regions of Mexico and Central America?
The Parota tree, known for its majestic size and durability, is called by various names across different regions of Mexico. In Oaxaca, it is often referred to as “Agucastle” or “Nacastillo.” Moving to Tamaulipas, locals call it “Cascabel sonaja.” In Veracruz, the tree goes by “Nacaxtle” or “Orejón.” In Central America, it is known as “Guanacaste”, a name derived from the Nahuatl word “cuauhmixtli,” meaning “ear tree” due to the ear-shaped seed pods. These diverse names reflect the cultural and linguistic heritage of the pre-Hispanic settlers and the regional dialects that have evolved over time.
What are the growth conditions for the Parota tree in Mexico and Central America?
The Parota tree thrives in tropical and warm climates. It is commonly found in coastal regions and alongside rivers and streams. This tree prefers areas that are below 800 meters in altitude. It can grow in a variety of soil types, from sandy to clayey.
Where is the Parota tree native to?
The Parota tree is native to tropical regions of Central and South America, particularly found in countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, and El Salvador. Its natural habitat ranges from dry tropical forests to moist lowland areas, thriving in diverse environmental conditions. In Mexico, it thrives predominantly in Mexico’s coastal regions. It can be found along the Gulf Coast, stretching from southern Tamaulipas to the Yucatan Peninsula. Additionally, it flourishes on the Pacific coastline from Sinaloa down to Chiapas.
What is the Parota tree?
The Parota tree, also known as Guanacaste or Enterolobium cyclocarpum, is a large, fast-growing tree native to tropical regions of Central and South America. It is renowned for its impressive size, durability, and strikingly beautiful wood, which is commonly used in furniture making, particularly for live edge tables. The tree’s wood features a rich, warm color with unique grain patterns, making it a popular choice for high-quality, custom furniture pieces.
Is Guanacaste wood a sustainable choice for furniture making?
Yes, Guanacaste wood, also known as Parota, is considered sustainable for furniture making. This sustainability is attributed to several factors:
- Fast Growth Rate: Guanacaste trees grow rapidly, which means they can be harvested and replanted efficiently, reducing the impact on forest ecosystems. Here is a list of other Fast Growing Trees.
- Abundance: These trees are plentiful in their native regions, such as Central and South America, which helps ensure that their use does not lead to deforestation.
- Eco-friendly Practices: Many suppliers of Guanacaste wood adhere to responsible forestry practices, including sustainable harvesting methods and reforestation efforts. For more info on sustainable forestry visit the Rainforest Alliance Webpage.
- Durability: The durability and longevity of furniture made from Guanacaste wood mean that pieces last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements and thereby lowering the overall environmental impact.
By choosing furniture made from Guanacaste wood, consumers can enjoy high-quality, beautiful pieces while also supporting sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
How is Parota wood used in furniture making?
Known scientifically as Enterolobium Cyclocarpum, Guanacaste wood, commonly called Parota, has a rich heritage in furniture making and beyond. Depending on where you live, Guanacaste is also known as rain tree, caro caro, or elephant ear tree, due to its distinctive seedpod shape.
Guanacaste trees are primarily found in Mexico and Central America. They are highly favored for wooden furniture design and construction due to their impressive characteristics:
- Dimensions of considerable size
- Gold-brown coloration with neutral tones
- The grain pattern is distinct
- Despite the price increases associated with its popularity, it remains an affordable option.
Tables made from Guanacaste wood are particularly beautiful, featuring a honey-like coloration and a reddish hue to the heartwood, along with distinct, cream-like sapwood. For a modern look, Guanacaste furniture can also be made without white sapwood.
The use of Parota in crafting extends traditionally from one generation to the next, often learned as a family trade. Carpenters and cabinetmakers dedicated to Parota wood inherit their skills from their forebears, continuing to produce:
- Furniture
- Decoration elements
- Ornaments
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Parota wood’s functional uses are diverse, embracing both household and agricultural applications:
- Kitchen tools
- Rural construction
- Agricultural equipment
The wood’s durability, water resistance, and impermeability also make it suitable for crafting toys and turned articles. It is even used for watercraft like canoes and light boats. This versatility underlines why Parota remains a preferred material in both traditional and contemporary crafts. It continues to retain its place in homes and hearts across generations.
What are the modern uses of the Parota tree?
There is a particular appeal to the wood grain of Guanacaste, which looks like that of Acacia or Koa. However, it has a more intense texture and a more consistent color. Compared to mahogany or redwood, Guanacaste trees are lighter in density, as they grow much more rapidly. They are therefore ideal for projects or furniture pieces of a large size. We bring out the grain patterns in Guanacaste using matte finishes which give it a much more natural look when compared to glossy varnishes.
Beyond its aesthetic allure, Guanacaste wood is utilized for a variety of modern applications, reflecting its versatility and sustainable growth properties. Its use extends beyond large furniture pieces to include:
- Ornamental Designs: Craftsmen often choose Guanacaste for creating intricate decorations and ornamental elements due to its appealing grain and color consistency.
- Construction and Tools: The wood’s light density makes it suitable for rural construction materials and handmade kitchen tools, blending functionality with natural beauty.
- Artisanal Toys and Turned Articles: The smooth finish and workability of Guanacaste allow artisans to produce toys and decorative items that are not only safe but also durable.
- Watercraft: Due to its buoyancy and resistance to water, Guanacaste is increasingly being used in the crafting of canoes and lightweight boats, showcasing its practicality in diverse manufacturing scenarios.
This expanded use of Guanacaste wood is steeped in a tradition of craftsmanship, often passed down through generations, making it a cornerstone in both local artisan and larger scale industrial uses. The wood’s unique properties and the skilled hands that shape it combine to keep the tradition alive in modern applications.
How tall can Parota trees grow?
An extremely fast-growing tree, Guanacaste, often reaches impressive heights of 65-100 feet. Its robust stature is not only a testament to its vigor but also marks it as a prime candidate for reforestry projects. Guanacaste trees can attain a trunk width of 5-9 feet, making them suitable for the sustainable production of long wood slabs.
The wood from Guanacaste trees is remarkable for its lightweight and lower density compared to most exotic hardwoods. This means that a large slab of Guanacaste wood is much lighter than other imported woods, facilitating easier handling and use in various applications. This tree combines utility with environmental benefits, offering a sustainable option for both local craftsmen and global industries.
