White Ash
Fraxinus americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a prominent ring-porous cathedral figure in flat-sawn sections. The appearance is very similar to Oak but without the conspicuous medullary rays.
Color Description
Heartwood is light to medium brown; sapwood can be very wide and tends to be beige or light brown. Color darkens slightly to a more golden yellow over time with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Perishable to Slightly Durable; poor resistance to rot and insect attack, making it unsuitable for exterior use without treatment.
Common Uses
Flooring, tool handles (especially hammers and axes), baseball bats, furniture, cabinetry, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/Recently processed (0-5 years) based on the lack of deep oxidation, minimal patina, and uniform surface finish.
Sustainability Status
Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List) due to the Emerald Ash Borer infestation, though not CITES listed. FSC certification is common.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes well. It has good steam-bending properties but can be prone to splintering.
Notable Features
Excellent shock resistance and strength-to-weight ratio. It has a distinct, mildly unpleasant odor when being worked.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability in flooring; oil and wax for furniture to highlight the coarse texture. Takes stains very well due to open pores.
Identification Confidence
High; the open-pore structure, distinct growth rings, and characteristic beige color palette are classic indicators of Ash, and the absence of ray flecks distinguishes it from White Oak.