Tannins

From BonsaiWIKI

Tannins are phenolic compounds found in the bark and wood of shrubs and trees. Tannins have uses, and properties important to medicine and wine, but our interest in them from the perspective of bonsai is related to toxicity; their ability to resist decay, and insect activity.

Links

http://www.ansci.cornell.edu/plants/toxicagents/tannin/
http://www.braintan.com/barktan/2tannins.htm