Pistachio
Pistacia vera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Highly irregular and variegated with dramatic swirling, knots, and interlocked grain. Exhibits a distinct burl-like or figured appearance with dark streaks and concentric circles around limb inclusions.
Color Description
Heartwood is a complex variegation of olive green, tan, and dark brown. It features high contrast streaks and bright reddish-orange or pinkish resin pockets in the knots. It has a high natural luster and develops a richer, darker patina over time.
Hardness Rating
1700 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable; good resistance to decay and insects, though typically utilized for indoor specialty items rather than exterior construction.
Common Uses
Woodturning, bowls, knife handles, fine inlay, decorative veneers, and high-end artisanal furniture.
Geographic Origin
Middle East and Central Asia; widely cultivated in California, USA and Mediterranean regions.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $50.00 per board foot for high-figure turning blanks.
Wood Age Estimate
The wood is from a mature fruit-producing tree, likely 30-60 years old based on the density of knots; the bowl appears recently turned and finished.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES or the IUCN Red List; generally sustainable as wood is often salvaged from orchard pruning or tree replacement.
Workability
Difficult due to high density and interlocked grain which causes frequent tearout. It turns well but requires very sharp tools; sands to a high natural polish.
Notable Features
Distinctive pungent or spicy scent when worked. Known for vibrant reddish-orange resin deposits in knots and unique greenish heartwood hues.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear, penetrating oils (like Tung or Linseed) or shellac to highlight the natural green and red color variations without clouding the figure.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of olive-green heartwood streaks coupled with the specific bright red-orange resin centers in the knots is a classic diagnostic feature of Pistacia vera.