Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus spp. (likely P. palustris or P. taeda) • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cathedral patterns with prominent, wavy growth rings; coarse and uneven texture
Color Description
Heartwood is reddish-brown with sapwood being a distinct yellowish-white; darkens to a deep golden yellow or amber with age and UV exposure
Hardness Rating
690 to 870 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable to Non-durable depending on species; heartwood has some rot resistance, sapwood has very little
Common Uses
Residential construction, framing, decking, flooring, plywood, and utility poles
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.00 - $4.00 per board foot for dimensional lumber
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively modern stock (under 20 years) based on lack of significant silvering or deep amber patina
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; not CITES listed and widely available with FSC certification
Workability
Generally easy to work with but resin can clog sandpaper and blades; high tendency for splintering if blades are dull
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous pine scent; high resin content can bleed through finishes; excellent nail-holding capacity
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or oil-based varnishes; use a shellac-based sealer to prevent resin bleed-through
Identification Confidence
High; the wide, dark latewood bands and yellowish earlywood are diagnostic of the Southern Yellow Pine group