Dakua Salusalu - Decussocarpus vitiensis (Seem.)

Salusalu is imported from Fiji and often regarded as a substitute for sap Rimu, It responds rather well to both hand and machine tools to yield smooth, finished surfaces in most woodworking operations. The mature tree usually has a trunk diameter between 50 and 160 cm.

• The color of Salusalu ranges from pale brown to golden orange-brown the sapwood is not distinct from the heartwood. The timber is a good substitute for Kauri (Agathis spp.) as there is resemblance in sheen and fine texture although it is darker in color. Some logs have contrasting bands of yellow and brown present.
• The grain is typically straight and there is no characteristic odor or taste. It is a relatively soft timber.
• The timber is reported to be prone to blue stain, and is susceptible to attack by termites, pinhole borers, longhorn beetles, and marine borers. The heartwood is resistant to preservative treatment but the sapwood is permeable.
• Air-seasoning and kiln drying are reported to be easy except that there is considerable variation in drying rate between individual boards. Warping may occur in back-sawn material. There is also a slight tendency for the timber to check and collapse.
• The timber is reported to be easy to work. The fine texture and low density enable the timber to be sawn; planed and turned with ease some chipping out is expected. Holes bore smoothly, but chipping may also occur as the bit breaks through. Nail holding capacity is relatively low.
• Salusalu is suitable for interior finishing, mouldings, window frames and sashes, window sills, external and internal doors, furniture, cabinets, and paneling.