Wood Species Guide
Tzalam
Lysiloma spp. (mainly Lysiloma latisiliquum and L. bahamense)
Also called: Caribbean Walnut, Wild Tamarind, False Tamarind, Dzalam, Tsalam
About the name “Tzalam”
Wild tamarind is also the name we use for a different Central American wood (see our Wild Tambran page). Here it means Lysiloma, Florida's own wild tamarind.
What Tzalam looks like
Heartwood is a warm medium to dark brown, sometimes with reddish or golden tones, a lot like walnut. Sapwood is pale and clearly defined.
Grain and texture
Grain is mostly straight, sometimes interlocked, with a medium texture and a good natural luster.
Working Tzalam: planing, cutting and gluing
Works reasonably well with sharp tools. Interlocked patches can chip on the planer, so take light passes. It glues and screws well and sands cleanly.
Finishing Tzalam: oil, film finishes and epoxy
Takes oil, varnish and lacquer well, and a clear oil brings out the walnut-like color. It is a good candidate for epoxy work; seal the surface first and you avoid most outgassing bubbles.
Durability, stability and Florida humidity
Rated durable against decay, which suits it to flooring and some exterior trim. It is fairly stable once dried. In Florida, acclimate it to your space and finish all faces.
Shop notes from our Fort Myers shop
Tzalam is a solid walnut alternative from Mexico's Yucatan region, often from managed forests. It's handy when you want a brown hardwood that's harder than walnut. Here in South Florida, the native wild tamarind tree is one of the Lysiloma species sold as tzalam. Note that product names like 'wild tamarind' get used for other trees too, so check our Wild Tamarind page for the slabs we stock.
Common uses for Tzalam
Flooring, cabinetry, furniture, doors, trim, veneer and turned objects.
Sustainability and CITES status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List.
Safety and toxicity
- Respiratory / asthma
Few reports. Cold-like symptoms such as a stuffy or runny nose have been reported from the dust. Strong reactions are uncommon.
- In the shop
- Dust collection + mask when sanding
- Food contact
- Use with care for cutting boards, bowls and utensils
General information, not medical advice. See a doctor if you have a reaction.
Severe reactions are uncommon, but cold-like symptoms have been reported. Collect dust and wear a mask when sanding.
Tzalam in stock now
Ask us. We can often source it.
We don't have Tzalam listed online right now, but new slabs and lumber come in all the time and not everything makes it to the website. Tell us what you're building and we'll check our racks and suppliers.
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