Tasmanian Myrtle (Myrtle Beech) 

Nothofagus cunninghamii

Description

Not a true Beech. Grows in Victoria and Tasmania. Heartwood ranges from pale pink through to browns and deep purples. The grain is very fine and often has an amazing fiddleback figure.

Workability

Generally works well but the fiddleback can be tough. Difficult to glue.

Applications

Fine furniture, high end joinery and flooring. Prized for veneers.

Availability

Feast and famine. Sometimes we have plenty and other times it can be hard to get.

Hardness

Janka 5.9   700kg/m3.

Durability

Not durable.

At a Glance

Turning:		Excellent
Machining:		Needs care
Bending:		Excellent
Sanding:		Excellent
Nailing/Screwing:		Can split
Glueing:		Difficult.  Try a high solid PVA or polyurethane.
Timber Coating:		Generally accepts most coatings.
Oil:		Oils well.
Note 1		A great cabinet timber.  Also available in veneer boards
Note 2		Several other Nothofagus species are found in the region.