Likely White Ash; alternative: Green Ash or European Ash — Fraxinus americana (likely)

Likely White Ash; alternative: Green Ash or European Ash

Fraxinus americana (likely) · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Northeast, and Appalachian regions.
Hardness
Janka approximately 1,320 lbf — Hard.
Durability
Slightly Durable; limited resistance to decay, insects, and prolonged weather exposure, especially when unfinished.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, open-grained with pronounced cathedral patterns and subtle growth-ring variation, consistent with flat-sawn stock.

Color & Appearance

Pale cream to light tan heartwood and nearly white sapwood, with moderate natural luster. It generally darkens slightly to warmer straw tones with age and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

Janka approximately 1,320 lbf — Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; limited resistance to decay, insects, and prolonged weather exposure, especially when unfinished.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $5–12 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried surfaced stock; figured or premium wide boards may cost more.

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

Wood Age Estimate
Appears freshly milled or recently surfaced; no reliable patina, oxidation, or wear indicators are visible.

Common Uses

Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, interior millwork, tool handles, sporting goods, veneer, and bent components.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Northeast, and Appalachian regions.

Workability

Machines, sands, glues, and finishes well, though open pores require filling for a glass-smooth finish. Interlocked grain can cause localized tear-out; predrilling is useful for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Use sanding sealer followed by pore filler, then oil, lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane. Clear finishes preserve its pale color; oil produces warmer contrast.

Notable Features

Strong, resilient, relatively lightweight for its hardness, with prominent earlywood pores and attractive growth-ring figure. The image shows no distinctive curl or spalting.

Learn more about Likely White Ash; alternative: Green Ash or European Ash in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 7, 2026