Osage Orange
Maclura pomifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- South-Central United States, primarily centered around the Red River valley of Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, but widely naturalized throughout North America.
- Hardness
- 2,620 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack, often considered one of the most decay-resistant woods in North America.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse texture and distinct ring-porous structure.
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut heartwood is a striking bright golden-yellow or bright orange, which darkens significantly upon exposure to UV light and air to a rich dark brown or weathered grey over time. The sapwood is a narrow band of pale yellow.
Hardness (Janka)
2,620 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack, often considered one of the most decay-resistant woods in North America.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $5.00 to $12.00 per board foot for lumber, though frequently sold as turning blanks or rounds.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut to recently felled log, likely less than a few months old based on the vibrant un-oxidized orange color and lack of deep weathering on the end grain.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on the CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List. It is abundant in its native and naturalized ranges and is generally considered sustainable.
Common Uses
Fence posts, archery bows, turned objects, accent furniture, primitive tool handles, and inlay work.
Geographic Origin
South-Central United States, primarily centered around the Red River valley of Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, but widely naturalized throughout North America.
Workability
Extremely difficult to work with both hand and machine tools due to its extreme density and hardness. It dulls cutting edges very quickly. Pre-boring is required for nailing or screwing. Glues reasonably well despite natural oils.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oils and varnishes well. Because of its vibrant natural color, clear finishes like blonde shellac, wipe-on poly, or penetrating oils are recommended to highlight the golden-yellow hue before it darkens.
Notable Features
Contains high amounts of natural tannins and chemical compounds that provide exceptional decay resistance. It is exceptionally heavy, stable once dry, and possesses high shock resistance.
