Boxelder (Ash-leaved Maple)
Acer negundo · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- North America, widely distributed across the United States and parts of Canada.
- Hardness
- 720 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack, especially the sapwood.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium texture; displays characteristic vivid red to pinkish heartwood staining (often caused by injury or fungal infection), which is highly distinctive.
Color & Appearance
Sapwood is creamy white to yellowish-white, while the distinctive heartwood features striking bright red, pink, or purple streaks and flame-like patterns. Luster is low to medium. Colors tend to fade to a brownish gray over time if exposed to direct UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
720 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack, especially the sapwood.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 dollars per board foot depending on the amount and vibrancy of the red heartwood figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut logs, approximately 20 to 40 years old based on visible ring counts on the cross-sections.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely abundant and fast-growing, not listed in CITES appendices.
Common Uses
Turning, bowls, decorative boxes, accent veneers, novelty items, and occasionally lightweight framing or crating.
Geographic Origin
North America, widely distributed across the United States and parts of Canada.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools, turns exceptionally well on a lathe, glues and finishes satisfactorily, though soft enough to dent easily.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or penetrating oils to highlight the contrasting red and white colors. UV-blocking topcoats are recommended to help preserve the red coloration from fading.
Notable Features
Unique bright red staining in the heartwood caused by the tree's natural defense mechanism against boxelder bugs or mechanical wounding. Softer and lighter in weight than most other maples.
