American Beech
Fagus grandifolia · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, ranging from Nova Scotia to northern Florida and west to Wisconsin and Texas.
- Hardness
- 1,300 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Perishable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack, including borer and termite infestation.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, uniform texture. Notable for its high concentration of conspicuous medullary rays which appear as small reddish-brown flecks or "silver grain" when quarter-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically a pale straw color to light reddish-brown, while sapwood is nearly white and difficult to distinguish from heartwood. It has a low to medium natural luster and tends to darken/yellow slightly with age.
Hardness (Janka)
1,300 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Perishable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack, including borer and termite infestation.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 - $6.00 per board foot for select grade lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Sample appears relatively fresh or recently machined, likely within the last 5-10 years based on the lack of deep oxidation or surface patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, tool handles (especially planes), turned objects, veneers, brush handles, and railway ties (if treated).
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, ranging from Nova Scotia to northern Florida and west to Wisconsin and Texas.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it has high shrinkage and can be prone to movement if not properly dried. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well including oils, polyurethane, and lacquer. Due to its uniform texture, it stains well but can sometimes blotch if not pre-sealed.
Notable Features
Essentially odorless. Well known for its excellent steam-bending properties and high shock resistance. The distinct medullary ray flecks are its primary visual identifier.
