A strange tree that bleeds when cut

There is a unique tree in Africa which, when cut, oozes a blood-like fluid.

This tree, which sheds its ‘blood’ when cut, is locally known as ‘bloodwood’ and belongs to the teak family. In biological language it is called Pterocarpus angolensis.

People living in the equatorial part of Africa are familiar with this exotic tree and use its wood to make high quality furniture and musical instruments.

This African teak tree has several unique characteristics. It is naturally resistant to termites and its wood has a pleasant aroma.

The most important quality of bloodwood is that it is not affected by fire. That is why in African countries it is also cultivated around the constructions that are intended to be protected from fire.

The natives are well aware of these properties of bloodwood, but outside Africa the tree is known for the blood-like fluid that oozes from its bark when cut.

Due to its blood-like sap, many local populations believe that this tree has magical powers to cure blood diseases.

Based on this belief, the local healers also use the red fluid that oozes from the tree in indigenous medicine, but its efficacy in blood disorders has not been proven.

When the stem of the bloodwood is cut, the fluid that oozes from the bark actually looks like blood.

Blood wood tree.
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– Rajesh Sutradhar. (@RajeshS62040165) September 19, 2023

According to biologists, an organic compound called tannin is found in most parts of plants, especially leaves. It usually amounts to 12 to 20 percent. Compared to this, the fluid leaking from the bloodstream contains 77% of it and hence its red color.

Biologists say that bloodwood’s ‘blood-colored fluid’ makes the tree unpalatable to animals due to its taste and digestive upset. So it is its natural defense system that protects it from becoming food for animals and insects like termites.