Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy, very prominent and wide latewood bands producing high-contrast growth rings. This sample shows an irregular, wild grain pattern due to its location within a burl or branch junction (crotch-like figure).
Color Description
Heartwood is light reddish-brown with a distinct orange hue; sapwood is pale cream to yellowish-white. It exhibits high luster and tends to darken/redden significantly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack if left untreated in ground contact.
Common Uses
Heavy construction, flooring, boat building, exterior joinery, veneers, and decorative wood turning (especially figured pieces).
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot for high-figure or burl segments; lower for standard dimensional lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
The piece appears to be freshly turned or recently refinished from reclaimed stock. Visible checking suggests it was dried rapidly or from a heartwood section. Growth ring count in the center indicates a tree age of at least 40-50 years for that section.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and harvested from sustainably managed forests, often FSC certified.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though the transition between soft earlywood and hard latewood can cause uneven sanding or 'ridging.' It glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet odor when worked. Known for the highest strength-to-weight ratio among common softwoods. High resin content can sometimes foul sandpaper.
Finish Recommendations
Clear polyurethane or oil-based varnishes work best to highlight the warm orange tones and chatoyance of the grain. High-gloss finishes are common for decorative bowls like this.
Identification Confidence
High; the wide, reddish-orange latewood bands, prominent growth ring transition, and specific color palette are diagnostic of Douglas Fir burl/knot wood.