The Lyptus Alternative

Lyptus wood is derived from a hybrid of Eucalyptus strains: Eucalyptus Grandis and Eucalyptus Urophylla. The trees are grown on Brazilian plantations, and may be harvested over a shorter time scale than other hardwoods and are favoured as environmentally friendly.

The Lyptus trees are ready for harvest in about fifteen years compared to the seventy years required to mature Mahogany, and the stumps of cut trees sprout saplings naturally – it’s not difficult to see why cultivation of Lyptus is actively encouraged!

Lyptus has a close and straight grain

It is moderately coarse and it is harder than Oak. It is frequently compared to Maple in its qualities, which makes it an ideal material for manufacturing kitchenware and internal cabinetry. A set of Lyptus kitchen cabinets would be durable and would also polish to a fine finish. Lyptus is less costly than Oak, Teak or Maple and is receptive to staining and polishing with its uniform grain. It works well and looks great with a light wax.
Buying Lyptus is an adventure in color as it tends to vary from darker shades similar to Hickory and a lighter color similar to Birch and Ash. However, light will darken the pigments of the wood over time and produce a deep hue. Lyptus is heavy – heavier than just about any other hardwood. The wood responds well to hand working but can splinter when worked under a machine.
As a plantation grown wood, Lyptus does not deplete forests that are regarded as valuable shelters for biodiversity. And Lyptus’ fast rate of growth guarantees supply at a reasonable cost. The planting environment allows for precise soil, spacing and other eco factors to provide the highest standard of wood from the smallest area possible. It is structurally sound and is therefore a suitable raw material for cutting boards, chopping blocks and sturdy kitchenware.

Lyptus is photosensitive and turns some stunning colors in its ageing process; pale blond to pink to reddish gold. It has become increasingly popular with architects over recent years due to its versatility that allows creativity without losing strength. In a contemporary design, Lyptus is often used for panelling with its pale pink hue that does not detract from a room’s natural light. It takes staining well which is why it is often used for kitchen cabinets.

Wood crafters are becoming increasingly aware of Lyptus as an eco-friendly alternative since it is grown in sustainable forests. Not only is it friendly to the environment, it is also a good deal cheaper than traditional timber and retains color better than Oak or Mahogany. It is often used with Maple to create a jigsaw or collage effect for kitchen counters.

Lyptus provides a wonderful medium for gift boxes such as trinket boxes and cigar cases; decorative art boxes and ornamental table decoration with carved fruit and flowers. Its natural weight makes carved products sturdy and durable. Wood carvers prefer the conservationist background of Lyptus to using less sustainable materials. Lyptus mosaics are becoming popular for table tops and feature stringing for the edging on musical instruments.
Photograph credits:
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http://www.lyptus.com/
http://www.rixwoodwurx.com/index.asp?ItemID=55&mid=67&incid=31

Lyptus – a Wonderful Choice for Gifts

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