Wood color: The heartwood is reddish-grey to brown in color and changes to a wine-red when steamed. The longer it is steamed, the darker the color. Application: Veneer for production of furniture and architectural purposes. The typical “snakeskin” marking is brought about by slicing true quarters, where rays are cut at an angle of 180° to produce decorative ellipse-shaped figuring. In addition to that, cabinetry, fine furniture, musical instruments (guitars), and turned objects.