corkwood

Corkwood refers to the lightweight, buoyant wood harvested from certain tree species, most notably from the genus Corkwood (Dendrocnide) and the African corkwood tree (Commiphora africana). The wood is characterized by its low density and porous structure, making it exceptionally light. This buoyancy is a key characteristic that has led to its traditional uses.

Historically, corkwood has been employed in various applications where lightness is advantageous. Indigenous communities have utilized it for crafting lightweight tools, fishing floats, and even small watercraft. The African corkwood tree's wood is particularly noted for its soft texture and ease of carving, lending itself to decorative items and utensils.

The term corkwood is sometimes also associated with plants that produce a bark resembling cork, though this is distinct from the wood itself. The primary characteristic of corkwood, regardless of the specific species, remains its remarkable lightness. Its limited hardness and durability mean it is generally not suitable for structural purposes but excels in applications demanding buoyancy and ease of manipulation. Research into its potential uses in modern applications, such as insulation or composite materials, continues, though its widespread commercial use is limited by availability and the properties of more common materials.