Stonewood Tree

One of House Vauxt's earlier creations, the stonewood tree was an attempt to create an improved, faster growing version of rock maple.

Basic Information

Growth Rate & Stages

The stonewood tree grows unusually quickly for a tree with such hard wood. Under optimal growing conditions, it only takes about 10-15 years to reach a harvestable size, depending on the size of log needed. If longer, thinner logs are desired, the trees should be planted more closely together. If the trees are being grown for wide boards, they should be given adequate space on all sides so that the trunks will grow to be as wide as possible.

Ecology and Habitats

Grows best in temperate areas with warm (but not excessively hot) summers and relatively mild winters. It can withstand fairly extreme heat, cold, and drought, but any of these will slow its growth noticeably. Trees may survive quick, low grassfires, but will almost certainly perish in any sort of serious forest fire.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

The wood of this tree is highly valued for its durability, beauty, and strength. Several different varieties are cultivated for their different graining patterns. Its pale color allows it to be stained almost any color. It is absolutely the best wood available for flooring. Stonewood is highly resistant to rotting, bugs, and water damage, so it is very popular for outdoor use. It makes excellent, if expensive, firewood, burning long and hot without much smoke when properly cured.

Lifespan

Unknown, no tree has been left to live its full lifespan before being cut down.

Conservation Status

A domestic cultivar, but, due to its rapid growth, the stonewood tree very quickly becomes naturalized if left to its own devices. It has the potential to become invasive, but due to the value of its wood, larger forest-dwelling trees are quickly cut down.

Average Height

Maximum attainable height is unknown, but trees have grown to nearly 100' tall before being felled.