Aningre (Superba)
Pouteria superba
Aningeria superba is the premier species within the Aningre trade group, often yielding slightly denser and finer timber than its cousins. It serves as a neutral, sophisticated canvas for high-end joinery, favored for its consistency and the shimmering block mottle figure found in quartersawn flitches.
Botanical Profile
A large deciduous tree native to the tropical rainforests of the Congo Basin and West Africa. It can reach heights of 45 meters with a straight, cylindrical trunk. The tree produces edible yellow fruits, which are a food source for local primates, adding ecological importance to its commercial value.
Physical Properties
Moderately light but firm. It behaves much like Soft Maple in terms of density and cutting resistance, though the presence of silica can make it deceptive to machine over long runs.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Moderate to Severe; silica content acts as sandpaper on steel edges.
Gluing Advice
Good; absorbs glue evenly, though calcium deposits can occasionally interfere.
Finishing
Excellent; the neutral color takes stains and dyes with exceptional predictability.
Steam Bending
Moderate; steams reasonably well but is rarely used for this purpose.
Historical Context
While historically used locally for light construction and canoes, A. superba exploded onto the global market in the late 20th century. It became the standard substitute for Cherry and Walnut in large architectural projects where grain consistency across hundreds of panels was required.
Technical Specs
Not CITES listed. IUCN: Vulnerable due to heavy exploitation for veneer.