Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus palustris (or related Pinus species) · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States
- Hardness
- 690 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately durable, good decay resistance in heartwood depending on resin content
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn with prominent cathedral grain patterns and visible resin ring transitions
Color & Appearance
Light yellowish-brown heartwood with paler yellowish-white sapwood, moderate natural luster
Hardness (Janka)
690 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable, good decay resistance in heartwood depending on resin content
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 2.00 to 4.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent, estimated 1 to 5 years old based on surface condition and light oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant, widely planted and sustainably harvested in commercial tree farms, not CITES listed
Common Uses
Construction, framing, flooring, plywood, decking, and utility poles
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and tools, though high resin content can gum up sawblades and sandpaper
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, but requires a sealer or conditioner to prevent blotching due to uneven absorption in resinous areas
Notable Features
High resin and pitch content, distinctive pine scent, pronounced contrast between earlywood and latewood
