Mesquite


Name Mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa)
Type Hardwood.
Other Names Also known as honey mesquite, common mesquite, velvet mesquite, algarobo, and honey pod.
Sources Grows in western United States, Central America, and South America.
Appearance Medium to coarse texture with a fine, wavy, interlocked grain. Tan sapwood and light to dark brown heartwood, often with a golden hue. Sometimes resembles genuine mahogany.
Physical Props Heavy, hard, strong, and stiff (but brittle) with high stability in service and outstanding decay resistance.
Working Props Somewhat difficult to work due to hardness and cross-grain. Sands easily and finishes to a high polish. Very good turning properties. Glues, screws, and nails satisfactorily.
Uses Used for fence posts (due to high decay resistance), turnery, gunstocks, knife handles, novelties, fireplace mantels, flooring, and furniture to a limited extent.