Abstract

In order to evaluate the timber quality of cashew (Anacardium occidentale) from Kerala, the following properties were studied in 5 trees: density, thickness and percentage of bark, fibre length and percentage, vessel, ray and parenchyma percentage. Density mostly decreased with increasing age (distance from pith) an unusual feature, but also known in other American woods. Fibre length increased initially up to a certain distance from the pith and then decreased, the relationship being best represented by parabolic curves. There was n.s.d. between the 3 ht. levels (stump, 50 and 75 of the tree ht.) for any of the properties. It is suggested that logs from the crown are not necessarily inferior in quality, particularly in strength and pulp yield