Yellow Birch
Betula alleghaniensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America and southeastern Canada
- Hardness
- 1260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture
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Grain Pattern
Wavy and curly figure with irregular cathedral patterns and subtle interlocked grain
Color & Appearance
Golden to medium brown heartwood with lighter creamy yellow sapwood, featuring a warm natural luster and moderate chatoyance in the figured areas, darkening slightly to a deeper amber hue with age and UV exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.50 to 9.00 USD per board foot for figured select grades
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20 to 50 years old based on oxidation and milled surface characteristics
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, abundant in North America, widely available with good sustainable forestry management and FSC certification options
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, interior millwork, flooring, veneer, turning, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and southeastern Canada
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though figured areas can cause tearout during planing; glues, turns, and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, shellac, and polyurethane exceptionally well; sanding to a fine grit enhances the chatoyant curly figure
Notable Features
Distinctive curly figure producing strong chatoyance under light, fine uniform texture, and moderate weight with good shock resistance
