Eucalyptus (most likely Blue Gum or River Red Gum)
Eucalyptus globulus / Eucalyptus camaldulensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to Australia; widely naturalized in California and the Mediterranean
- Hardness
- 2,100–2,400 lbf (Very Hard to Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable; high natural resistance to rot and termites, though susceptible to severe checking and splitting in arid conditions
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked, wavy, and stringy with visible radial checking and prominent growth rings
Color & Appearance
Silvery-grey weathered exterior; heartwood typically reddish-brown to pink; sapwood pale yellow; lacks luster due to extreme weathering and oxidation
Hardness (Janka)
2,100–2,400 lbf (Very Hard to Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable; high natural resistance to rot and termites, though susceptible to severe checking and splitting in arid conditions
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Low commercial value as lumber due to high rate of warping/checking; $1.00 - $3.00 per board foot as firewood or fencing material
- Wood Age Estimate
- The tree was likely 15-25 years old based on ring count; the sample appears to have been dead/exposed for 2-5 years
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant; invasive in some regions (California); IUCN Least Concern; largely outside of CITES regulations
Common Uses
Heavy construction, railroad ties, utility poles, firewood, and rustic outdoor furniture
Geographic Origin
Native to Australia; widely naturalized in California and the Mediterranean
Workability
Difficult; very hard and dense, tends to dull blades quickly, prone to significant tearout due to interlocked grain; poor dimensional stability while drying
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating exterior oils for preservation; requires significant sanding to remove grey oxidation before applying film-building finishes like polyurethane
Notable Features
Distinctive 'stringy' or peeling bark, strong medicinal camphor-like scent when freshly cut, high oil content, and high tendency for radial cracking (checking)
