Likely elm (possibly American elm); alternatives include another ring-porous hardwood such as ash or oak. — Ulmus americana (tentative)

Likely elm (possibly American elm); alternatives include another ring-porous hardwood such as ash or oak.

Ulmus americana (tentative) · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
American elm is native to eastern and central North America.
Hardness
About 830 lbf for American elm; Soft by the categories provided.
Durability
Slightly Durable; heartwood has limited decay resistance, especially outdoors or in ground contact.

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Grain Pattern

Irregular, interlocked grain with a strongly contoured cross-section; the photo does not show enough detail to determine sawing orientation or special figure.

Color & Appearance

Pale tan to medium brown with darker gray-brown areas and a narrow dark bark edge. Natural color and luster are difficult to judge from this weathered end-grain view.

Hardness (Janka)

About 830 lbf for American elm; Soft by the categories provided.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; heartwood has limited decay resistance, especially outdoors or in ground contact.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly $4–$10 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried elm; a small irregular round may have little standardized lumber value.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be estimated reliably from this image; surface weathering alone does not establish the tree's or sample's age.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, veneer, flooring, turning, and historically cooperage and vehicle parts.

Geographic Origin

American elm is native to eastern and central North America.

Workability

Generally workable, though interlocked grain can tear during planing; sharp tools and careful cuts help. It glues and finishes readily.

Finish Recommendations

Sand progressively and use a sealer followed by oil, lacquer, or polyurethane; test first because weathering and color variation may affect the result.

Notable Features

Elm often has conspicuous ring-porous end grain and interlocked fibers; the photo's irregular outline and visible end grain are consistent but not diagnostic.

Learn more about Likely elm (possibly American elm); alternatives include another ring-porous hardwood such as ash or oak. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 15, 2026