trying to remember name of tree

[mr dazzler]

I wonder if anyone knows the name of a tree. I forgot it, but the species was an invasive one found here and in America. It was chinese I believe. It grows rapidly like a weed, the wood resembles ash (light cream/white colour with dark growth rings) and (amazingly) smells of PEANUTS when fresh cut. It works easily when green but is very hard when seasoned. I have a feeling it might make a good tone wood for instruments
Does anyone know which tree it is?
Cheers Jonathan

 

[bobnewboy]

Ailanthus altissima, a.k.a "tree of Heaven" ??? A quick google got there.

 

[mr dazzler]

Thats the one Bob, thanks for your fast responce:You_Rock_

Last time I had big clean logs of it I was making spoons. It is very tough and shiny when dry with a good "ping" I recently had an inkling it might just have a viable use as a tone wood to make sound boards or necks....

Thanks again, cheers Jonathan

 

[bobnewboy]

No worries. It sounds like it could be halfway possible bow wood as well -
I do keep an eye out for 'new' woods. I see that it has been used for electric guitar pick guards so it might be one for you to consider....