Chlorophora

/klɔːˈrɑːfərə/ noun

Definition

A genus of tropical trees that produce greenish-yellow wood, known for making fine lumber and producing a yellow dye.

Etymology

From chloro- (green) plus -phora (Greek pherein, to carry/bear). The genus name literally means 'chlorine-bearer' or 'green-bearing,' referring to the wood color.

Kelly Says

Chlorophora trees, particularly Chlorophora excelsa and C. tinctoria, have been prized for centuries in Africa and South America—woodworkers love them because the wood doesn't shrink much, plus they naturally produce lawsone, the same yellow dye found in henna.

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