is ho-wood and magnolia the same thing?

[inferno]

I'm having trouble determining what ho wood actually is, and if its in fact the same wood as magnolia.
Can anyone that knows explain the difference. I also see that there is 210 different types of magnolia.

 

[Qapla']

I'm having trouble determining what ho wood actually is, and if its in fact the same wood as magnolia.
Can anyone that knows explain the difference. I also see that there is 210 different types of magnolia.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnolia_obovata (maybe in your area https://sv.wikipedia.org/wiki/Junimagnolia)

That wood was historically chosen in Japan for its properties preferable for the uses we know it for; it's soft enough to carve reasonably easily, not too acidic (i.e., won't corrode the blade) and not too resinous (i.e. won't gum the blade). A North American might use poplar or alder as well, while you (if I remember correctly you are in Sweden) might look around your region and see what you'd find useful.

 

[RDalman]

Alder is common, there is poplar also. Alder is very nice to carve, and also is a very stable wood. Traditionally it was used alot for troughs. A bit soft for a fine finish, but that goes for magnolia too

 

[stringer]

Off topic but I can't resist.

Alder is great for barbecue too. Softer, less resinous wood smokes at a lower temperature and produces a mellow, but rich, smoke flavor. Sort of the opposite end of the spectrum from heavy hitters like mesquite or hickory. Similar to fruit woods or maple but without as much sweetness. I love it for poultry, fish, veggies, and leaner cuts of pork. It's wonderful for pork tenderloin.