Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight or slightly wavy with a fine, even texture. This sample shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern with subtle wavy figure and some small domestic burl indicators.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically light reddish brown with nearly white sapwood. This specific sample appears to have a medium-brown stain or aged finish, showing moderate luster and a warm patina typical of older birch furniture.
Hardness Rating
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior trim, plywood veneers, turned objects, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America, ranging from Southeast Canada to the Lake States and down the Appalachian Mountains.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot for select grade
Wood Age Estimate
20-40 years based on the oxidation of the finish and visible surface wear/patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though figured sections can experience grain tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Closed-pore structure makes it excellent for staining; has a very faint, pleasant scent when freshly worked; high shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or oil-based varnishes. Takes stains well but can be blotchy if a wood conditioner is not used first.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The diffuse-porous grain structure, fine texture, and characteristic cathedral figure are very typical of Betula species, likely stained to resemble cherry or walnut.