Botanical name: Athermosperma moschatum.

Distribution: Seloka is principally found in the high rainfall areas of Tasmania. It is a small to medium hardwood sometimes reaching 25m (82ft) but generally 10-15m (33-50ft).

Colour: The heartwood is a variety of brownish shades but tending to pale golden-brown. Sometimes the timber is available with a black streak which is the source of "Blackhearted Seloka" a very attractive timber which is also shown on this page.

The timber: Texture is very fine and even and the grain is generally straight.

Mechanical properties: Very good for steam bending but unsuitable for external use. Kiln dry densities vary from 440-560kgs/m³ (27-34lb/ft³).

Working properties: Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools with little blunting effect on cutters. No problems with grain tear out. It nails, accepts screws and glues with no difficulty. It finishes to a very high polish and accepts finishing treatments well.

Uses: Fine quality furniture and cabinet work, turnery, carving, handles and is available in veneer.

Availability: Moderate.