Black Locust
Robinia pseudoacacia · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, though widely naturalized throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.
- Hardness
- 1700 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack)
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Grain Pattern
Coarse, straight to irregular grain with distinct ring-porous structure clearly visible on the end grain.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a golden brown to greenish-yellow, darkening significantly upon exposure to light; sapwood is a pale yellowish-white and is very narrow.
Hardness (Janka)
1700 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, typically ranging from $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on region and availability.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut log, approximately 40 to 60 years old based on ring count visibility and log diameter.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not threatened on the IUCN Red List. Abundant and considered an invasive or weed species in certain introduced regions.
Common Uses
Fence posts, decking, outdoor furniture, boat building, ship framing, mining timbers, and turned items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, though widely naturalized throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.
Workability
Very difficult to work with both hand and machine tools due to its extreme hardness and density. High blunting effect on cutters. Pre-boring is essential for nailing and screwing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes and varnishes well, though due to its high natural weather resistance and outdoor usage, penetrating oils or weathering naturally are very common.
Notable Features
Contains natural toxins that make the heartwood extremely resistant to decay without chemical treatment. Heavy, dense, and possesses high shock resistance.
