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Detailed Introduction to Dalbergia odorifera (Huanghuali)
Dalbergia odorifera (Fragrant Rosewood / Huanghuali)
Botanical classification
Dalbergia odorifera belongs to the Fabaceae family and the Dalbergia genus, classified as a precious hardwood species.
Distribution and growth environment
Dalbergia odorifera is primarily found in Hainan Island, China, with smaller populations in Guangdong, Guangxi, and Yunnan. It thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, typically in low-altitude mountainous or hilly areas, preferring warm and humid climates.
Timber characteristics
- Color: The heartwood ranges from golden yellow to reddish-brown, with dark streaks and beautiful grain patterns.
- Fragrance: The wood naturally emits a subtle, soothing aroma, known for its calming properties.
- Density: The wood is hard, dense, and highly resistant to decay.
- Grain: It features fine grain patterns, often with unique figures like "ghost face" or "landscape" patterns, making it highly decorative.
Historical and cultural value
- Dalbergia odorifera was one of the three tribute woods during the Ming and Qing dynasties, exclusively used by royalty and known as the "King of Woods."
- Its wood is often used to craft high-end furniture, carved art pieces, wooden combs, and musical instruments, symbolizing nobility and elegance.
- In traditional Chinese culture, Huanghuali is considered an auspicious material, often used to create scholarly objects and decorative items.
Uses / Applications
- Furniture: The hard and beautifully grained wood is ideal for crafting high-end furniture.
- Artwork: Commonly used for carvings, scholarly objects, wooden combs, and decorative items, it holds significant artistic value.
- Musical Instruments: Known for its excellent acoustic properties, it is used to make traditional instruments like guqin and erhu.
- Medicinal Use: The wood and roots are used in traditional medicine for their properties in promoting blood circulation, relieving pain, and calming the mind.
Cultural symbol
Dalbergia odorifera is not just a type of wood but also an important symbol of Chinese traditional culture. It represents nobility, elegance, and craftsmanship, embodying the essence of Eastern aesthetics.
Dalbergia odorifera (Huanghuali) is one of the world's most precious woods, renowned for its unique material, fragrance, and cultural significance. It is not only a natural resource but also a symbol of Eastern culture and craftsmanship.
