European Beech
Fagus sylvatica · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Europe and western Asia.
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, even texture and characteristic short brown ray flecks visible on quarter-sawn surfaces.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light pinkish-brown heartwood, with little visible difference between sapwood and heartwood. It tends to darken slightly to a golden-brown over time with exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively recent, between 5 to 15 years old, based on its integration into modern commercial door construction.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern according to the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainably managed in European forests.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, interior millwork, doors, turned objects, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Europe and western Asia.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it burns easily during sawing or routing due to friction. Turns, glues, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, varnishes, and paints exceptionally well. Water-based and solvent-based polyurethanes provide great durability.
Notable Features
Features distinct, broad medullary rays that produce a prominent fleck pattern when quartered. High steam-bending capability.
