White Ash
Fraxinus americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Strong cathedral grain pattern resulting from a flat-sawn cut; coarse, open-pored texture with prominent growth rings and straight grain alignment.
Color Description
Light cream to very pale brown heartwood with nearly white sapwood. It features low natural luster and tends to amber or yellow slightly with UV exposure over time.
Hardness Rating
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; very low resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack (especially the Emerald Ash Borer).
Common Uses
Baseball bats, tool handles (shovels, hammers), flooring, cabinetry, millwork, electric guitar bodies, and bentwood furniture.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, ranging from Eastern Canada down to the Southeastern United States.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on thickness and grade; pricing is volatile due to Emerald Ash Borer impact.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent; the lack of deep oxidation or graying suggests the wood has been surfaced or harvested within the last 1-3 years.
Sustainability Status
Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List) due to the invasive Emerald Ash Borer; not currently CITES restricted but availability is shifting toward salvaged stocks.
Workability
Excellent with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes well. It is specifically known for its superb steam-bending properties.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'mildew' or slightly sour scent when freshly worked; high shock resistance; ring-porous structure makes it look similar to oak but without the visible medullary rays.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer works well for protection; since it is open-pored, a grain filler is required for a smooth glass-like finish, otherwise a simple wiped-oil finish highlights the texture.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of prominent ring-porous cathedral grain, pale coloration, and lack of wide medullary rays (distinguishing it from Red Oak) is characteristic of Fraxinus americana.