Rex Heathcote Furniture

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1. Figured Myrtle

Figured Myrtle Myrtle belongs to the same family as the beeches of Europe. Myrtle is found in the wet forests of Tasmania, mainly in the north-west and west of the state. Myrtle regenerates continuously in the moist and sheltered conditions.  Where Myrtle is found in exposed areas it can be susceptible to insect and fungal attack which damages the timber and can kill the tree. Therefore, as a species it is unsuitable for plantation growth. Supplies of Myrtle come from selective harvesting of forests grown on longer rotations. The striking, rich, red and brown tones and vibrant colour make it popular with furniture makers, architects and designers.

2. Huon Pine

Huon Pine is a species endemic to Tasmania. It only grows in the south-western part of the state along river banks, shores and swamps. It is slow growing and when mature reaches a height of about 30m, that may take 1000 years. Its durability and workability make it one of the best boat-building timbers known. The wood contains natural preserving oil with an unmistakable perfume. It is a rich golden timber producing extremely attractive and sought after timber and veneers. Huon Pine forests are reserved and much of the resource that is available comes from logs salvaged from rivers.

3. Sassafras

Sassafras grows throughout Tasmania as an aromatic evergreen tree. The best trees are found in gullies where Sassafras may reach 45m in height. The tree may live for 150-200 years. It has the most variable colouring of any Tasmanian timber. White Sassafras is a pale creamy grey to white timber. However, if it is infected with a fungus, it produces the striking Blackheart Sassafras. Blackheart can be streaked with brown, black or green.

4. Blackwood

Blackwood is a member of the wattle and hardwood family. It grows throughout Tasmania and thrives in swamps and river areas. It is a stunning timber available in a variety of colours from light golden brown to deep brown and the grain can be straight or wavy. It often has a reddish tint and occasionally shows black streaks. Blackwood is an easy tree to grow. The durable seed remains viable in the soil for decades. About 700ha of plantations have been established and more are planned. The trees are ready for harvest 40 years after planting.

 

5. Tasmanian Oak

Tasmanian Oak is a member of the Eucalypts family, it is light in colour, varying from straw  to reddish brown with interesting shades in the middle.  As a member of the hardwood family it is regularly used in  furniture making for its resilience and its ability to mix with other timbers.  Eucalypts demand light and grow best when they are not overshadowed.  Regeneration occurs after fires, they may live for 400 years or more and can attain  a height of 70m.