Bocote, derived from the Cordia genus (commonly Cordia elaeagnoides or Cordia gerascanthus), is a tropical hardwood native to Central and South America, with significant growth in Mexico, Brazil, and Honduras. These trees thrive in dry tropical forests, reaching heights of 50–100 feet with trunk diameters of 2–3 feet, often featuring a straight bole.

The heartwood of Bocote is visually captivating, ranging from a warm yellowish-brown to a rich, dark brown, frequently accented by bold, irregular streaks of black or dark green. This creates a dramatic, zebra-like pattern that makes each piece unique. The sapwood is a pale cream or yellowish-white, sharply distinct from the heartwood. The grain is typically straight to interlocked, with a fine to medium texture and a high natural lustre that gives it a polished appearance even before finishing.

Bocote has a density of around 850–950 kg/m³, classifying it as a hard and durable wood with excellent strength and stability once seasoned. It’s resistant to wear and moderately resistant to moisture and insects, though prolonged exposure to damp conditions may require treatment. Working with Bocote is generally straightforward, as it machines, turns, and carves well, but its natural oils can interfere with gluing—wiping the surface with a solvent like acetone before bonding is recommended. The interlocked grain may cause minor tearout during planing, so sharp tools are essential. It finishes beautifully, often requiring only a clear coat to highlight its vibrant patterns.

When worked, Bocote emits a mild, spicy aroma that fades after finishing. It’s a popular choice for high-end applications like furniture, cabinetry, and veneer, as well as smaller items such as knife handles, gun grips, and pen blanks. In the world of musical instruments, Bocote is prized for guitar backs, sides, and fretboards, offering a warm, balanced tone with good resonance. Its striking appearance also makes it a favourite for decorative inlays and turnery.

Bocote is moderately expensive due to its limited availability and high demand for its aesthetic qualities. While not as scarce as some tropical hardwoods, sustainable sourcing is important, as overharvesting has impacted some regions. Its combination of beauty, workability, and tonal properties makes Bocote a versatile and sought-after material for both functional and ornamental projects.