Osage Orange
Maclura pomifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Central North America, primarily native to the south-central United States, now widely naturalized.
- Hardness
- 2620 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture and visible ring-porous structure.
Color & Appearance
Bright golden-yellow to bright yellow when freshly cut, aging rapidly to a rich dark brown or weathered gray upon UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
2620 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on dimensions and quality.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately seasoned, likely less than 10 years old based on the surface oxidation state.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (Not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List).
Common Uses
Fence posts, archery bows, treenware, turning, accent furniture, and primitive woodworking.
Geographic Origin
Central North America, primarily native to the south-central United States, now widely naturalized.
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme hardness and density; tends to blunt cutting edges quickly, but turns well on a lathe.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil and wax finishes exceptionally well; polyurethanes and varnishes adhere nicely after proper surface prep.
Notable Features
Contains natural dyes (morin), high natural luster, highly flexible when green, and exceptionally stable once dry.
