Cocobolo

Also known as “redheart,” and with a scientific names of Erythroxylon mexicanum and Dalbergia retusa, cocobolo is a tropical hardwood that grows in Nicaragua, Panama, and Mexico. It ranges in color from light pink to orange to brownish red to red. It has a straight grain, with black and brown streaks, with curly figuring occurring in some examples. It is a member of the Dalbergia family of rosewoods. Cocobolo is a dense, oily, resonant wood, with a balanced tone, that is commonly used in xylophones, as well as in guitar and bass construction, in the same applications as other types of rosewood. Because it is so oily, it can be difficult to glue; its dust can cause allergic reactions for some woodworkers. It does not require a finish and is resistant to humidity.