European Beech
Fagus sylvatica • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine to medium uniform texture. The sample shows characteristic short, dark flea-like rays (pith rays) visible on the tangential surface.
Color Description
Pale cream color with a pink or brown hue. Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown. This sample appears to have been steamed, which deepens the pink/red tones and provides greater color uniformity.
Hardness Rating
1,300 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; very susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, veneer, musical instruments (piano blocks), tool handles, and steam-bent items.
Geographic Origin
Europe, primarily Central and Western Europe.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on thickness and steaming treatment.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; likely less than 10-20 years old based on the clean machine-cut joint and lack of deep oxidation or patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Generally widely available and sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both machine and hand tools. It glues, finishes, and turns well. It is particularly valued for its exceptional steam-bending properties.
Notable Features
Essentially odorless. High shrinkage rate makes it prone to movement if not properly dried. Notable for the small spindly ray flecks that appear as dark brown lines on flat-sawn surfaces.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well, including clear polyurethane, lacquer, and oils. Because of its uniform pore structure, it stains evenly without blotching.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinctive small brown pith rays combined with the pale pinkish-tan color and uniform texture are definitive characteristics of European Beech.