Reply by sbk

In parts of the south, we refer to Osage Orange as Bois D’Arc (pronounced as Boat Arc), and the Horse Apple tree. My dad likes to say that this stuff is so rot resistant that you could wear out two post holes with one Bois D’Arc fence post.

I’ve worked with Bois D’Arc several times, and really like the way it looks and finishes. You might expect tear-out when you plane it if your tools aren’t sharp, but that’s true for most any wood. I haven’t turned any bowls, but I did turn several spindles for a doll bed. The wood worked well…just keep your tools sharp.

-- Stephen, Missouri City, Texas