Likely English oak (alternatives: white oak or European oak burl/figure) — Quercus robur (alternatively Quercus alba)

Likely English oak (alternatives: white oak or European oak burl/figure)

Quercus robur (alternatively Quercus alba) · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Native to Europe and western Asia; white oak is native to eastern North America.
Hardness
About 1,120 lbf Janka for English oak; Medium hardness.
Durability
Durable; heartwood has good decay resistance, while sapwood is less resistant. Outdoor durability is inferior to naturally durable species without protection.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Flat-sawn, strongly cathedral-like grain with extensive natural burl eyes and localized irregular figure; pores appear ring-porous.

Color & Appearance

Pale tan to honey-brown heartwood with lighter sapwood, darker knots, and moderate luster. Oak typically deepens slightly amber with light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

About 1,120 lbf Janka for English oak; Medium hardness.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable; heartwood has good decay resistance, while sapwood is less resistant. Outdoor durability is inferior to naturally durable species without protection.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $15–40 per board foot for attractive figured oak; exceptional burl can exceed this range.

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 reliably dated from the photograph; it appears freshly machined or recently sanded rather than substantially aged.

Common Uses

Furniture, figured panels, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, barrels, and decorative turning stock.

Geographic Origin

Native to Europe and western Asia; white oak is native to eastern North America.

Workability

Generally machines and sands well, but burl areas may tear out and require sharp cutters, light passes, and scraping. Gluing and fastening are straightforward.

Finish Recommendations

Use a washcoat or sanding sealer to moderate uneven absorption, then apply oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane after careful sanding.

Notable Features

Distinctive open ring pores, medullary rays, and multiple burl clusters; the figure should show strong depth under finish.

Learn more about Likely English oak (alternatives: white oak or European oak burl/figure) in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 20, 2026