White Ash
Fraxinus americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,320 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, susceptible to attack by powderpost beetles and decay when in contact with soil.
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Grain Pattern
Prominent open-grained ring-porous structure with straight grain and a distinct cathedral pattern on the flat-sawn turned surface.
Color & Appearance
Light creamy to pale yellowish-brown heartwood with lighter sapwood, exhibiting a natural glossy luster under the turned finish.
Hardness (Janka)
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, susceptible to attack by powderpost beetles and decay when in contact with soil.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly turned modern stock, estimated less than 1 year since harvesting.
- Sustainability Status
- Threatened severely due to the invasive Emerald Ash Borer beetle infestation across North America, though not strictly CITES listed.
Common Uses
Tool handles, baseball bats, furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and wood turning projects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; turns, glues, and finishes very well, though it can occasionally splinter under aggressive hand tooling.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, and polyurethane exceptionally well; sanding sealer recommended before finishing to smooth out open pores.
Notable Features
High shock resistance, excellent steam-bending properties, and distinct ring-porous texture.
