Basswood (American Linden)
Tilia americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
- Hardness
- 410 lbf (Very Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable; rated as perishable regarding decay resistance and susceptible to insect attack.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture. The sample shows a flat-sawn or rift-sawn appearance with subtle, indistinct growth rings and very small pores.
Color & Appearance
Pale white to light cream or yellowish-brown heartwood. Sapwood is very wide and typically indistinguishable from heartwood; little to no luster; tends to darken slightly to a pale tan with age.
Hardness (Janka)
410 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; rated as perishable regarding decay resistance and susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Approximately $4.00 - $6.50 per board foot for select grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively young or modern stock; lack of significant oxidation, UV graying, or patina suggests it was milled within the last 5-10 years and stored indoors.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; highly sustainable and widely available.
Common Uses
Wood carving, hand-carving (the premier choice), Venetian blinds, shutters, inner furniture parts, plywood, and pulpwood.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Very soft and low density, though its fuzzy grain can sometimes cause issues during sanding if not using sharp abrasives. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paint and stains very well. For carvings, a simple clear wax or light oil finish is recommended to maintain the pale look; however, it can be blotchy with dark stains without a wood conditioner.
Notable Features
Essentially odorless. Known for being one of the best species for kiln drying because it resists warping. It has very little grain character making it ideal for intricate detail carving.
