European Beech
Fagus sylvatica · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Europe, predominantly Central and Eastern Europe.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture, best suited strictly for interior applications.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, uniform texture; distinctive short, dark medullary ray flecks clearly visible throughout the face grain.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light pinkish-brown hue; steamed European beech shows a slightly warmer pink-red cast. Tends to darken slightly over time to a deeper golden amber.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture, best suited strictly for interior applications.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $9.00 per board foot (standard 4/4 FAS grade lumber).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled/surfaced dimensional lumber sample showing minimal ambient oxidation or aging.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Red List status: Least Concern. Widespread, sustainably managed in European forests, and widely available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Furniture construction, cabinetry, flooring, turned objects, workbench tops, steam-bending, tool handles, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Europe, predominantly Central and Eastern Europe.
Workability
Excellent workability with hand and power tools. Machines smoothly, glues, turns, and steam-bends exceptionally well, though high density requires sharp tools to prevent burning.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and finishes extremely well. Works excellently with clear polyurethanes, wiping oils, shellac, or lacquer. Stains evenly due to tight, closed pore structure.
Notable Features
Distinct short brown ray flecks (spindles) on flat-sawn surfaces, high density, smooth fine texture, excellent steam-bending properties, no distinct odor.
