Eucalyptus (most likely Flooded Gum or Rose Gum)
Eucalyptus grandis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to Australia; extensively grown in plantations across South Africa, South America, and India.
- Hardness
- 1,100 lbf (Medium - Janka rating can vary between 700-1400 depending on subspecies)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; heartwood has some resistance to rot, though sapwood is susceptible to Lyctid borer attack and decay in wet conditions.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly interlocked with a medium to coarse texture; visible irregular growth rings and some spalting or fungal staining in the heartwood transition.
Color & Appearance
Sapwood is pale yellow to white; heartwood ranges from pinkish-red to light brown. Exhibits low luster and is prone to darkening with age/UV exposure. Blue/gray fungal staining is visible in the cross-section.
Hardness (Janka)
1,100 lbf (Medium - Janka rating can vary between 700-1400 depending on subspecies)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; heartwood has some resistance to rot, though sapwood is susceptible to Lyctid borer attack and decay in wet conditions.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 0.80 - 2.50 USD per board foot depending on grade and region; often sold as lower-cost utility timber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Young growth, likely 5-10 years based on the small diameter and rapid growth ring spacing typical of plantation eucalyptus.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available as FSC certified plantation-grown timber. Highly sustainable due to rapid growth.
Common Uses
General construction, utility poles, flooring, furniture, pallets, pulpwood for paper, and firewood.
Geographic Origin
Native to Australia; extensively grown in plantations across South Africa, South America, and India.
Workability
Fair to good; however, prone to significant warping and splitting during drying (checking). Can be abrasive on tools due to high density in some hybrids.
Finish Recommendations
High-solids oils or penetrating sealers to mitigate cracking; takes paint and film-finishes well once properly seasoned and stabilized.
Notable Features
Distinctive pungent or medicinal scent when freshly cut; high moisture content leads to rapid checking/cracking on the end grain as shown in the photo.
