Youpon?

[michael gallagher]

Here in a lot of areas in Texas, we have a noxious weed call the Youpon tree (then again, Central and West Texas ranchers call the Mesquite tree an evil needing eradication). It grows pretty fast, and if left unchecked can multiply and shoot up pretty fast and thick - in many cases you can't penetrate it.

You can't use it in the BBQ grill.

Has anyone turned it? If so, what was (were) your experience(s) with it? Care to post anything you turned with it?

Thanks-

Michael

[Richard Madison]

Michael,
I tried to save some about 2-1/2" diameter, many years ago. Did not know to wax the ends and it split all the way through.

[Allen Neighbors]

I've never heard of it, so I don't guess I've ever seen it. What does it look like? And how large does it get?
Both of you live so far South of me... that's probably why I'm in the dark about it.
I would like to see some pics of pieces made from it.

[neil mackay]

here we go a bit more info on Ilex vomitoria or Yaupon Holly

http://texastreeplanting.tamu.edu/Display_Onetree.aspx?tid=38
http://www.nativesoftexas.com/yaupon.html

and some pics
http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/showimage/104110/

[Chris Barnett]

If it is Mesquite, it is highly prized for its use in the BBQ for imparting an excellent flavor. Use it frequently, and mixed with hickory it is even better.

[Hilel Salomon]

It also makes pretty bowls, though it's h-ll on tools, Hilel