Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus spp. (likely Pinus palustris or Pinus echinata) • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Strong cathedral and linear grain patterns typical of flat-sawn lumber. High contrast between earlywood and latewood rings with visible knots.
Color Description
Heartwood is reddish-brown to orange; sapwood is yellowish-white. It has a high natural resinous luster and typically darkens to a deep golden yellow or tea-color over time.
Hardness Rating
690 to 870 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; heartwood contains natural resins that offer some resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack without treatment.
Common Uses
Flooring, heavy construction, decking, cabinetry, interior trim, and furniture.
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 - $4.00 per board foot for select grade
Wood Age Estimate
Recently milled or stored in a dry environment; minimal oxidation and fresh appearance suggests less than 5 years since milling.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List. Widely available from FSC-certified plantations.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though high resin content can gum up saw blades and sandpaper.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; heavy weight for a softwood; high resin content can cause paint adhesion issues if not sealed.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based stains, polyurethane, or shellac. A pre-stain wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High; the wide latewood bands, prominent resin canals, and characteristic knot structure are definitive for Southern Yellow Pine.