Osage Orange (Alternative: Black Locust)
Maclura pomifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- South-Central United States, though naturalized widely across North America.
- Hardness
- 2,760 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack, making it one of the most durable woods in North America.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a very fine, tight texture and distinct ring porosity.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a vibrant bright yellow to golden-yellow when freshly cut, which ages and oxidizes to a rich dark brown or amber color upon prolonged exposure to light. Sapwood is a pale yellow-white.
Hardness (Janka)
2,760 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack, making it one of the most durable woods in North America.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderately high for turning blocks and specialty stock, typically ranging from $5 to $10 per board factor or higher depending on size.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently cut or harvested within the last few weeks to months, based on the fresh sawdust and lack of deep weathering on the exposed end grain.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List. Widely abundant and considered sustainable.
Common Uses
Fence posts, archery bows, turnery, accent pieces, primitive weapons, and mallets due to its extreme hardness and shock resistance.
Geographic Origin
South-Central United States, though naturalized widely across North America.
Workability
Extremely difficult to work with both hand and machine tools due to its extreme density and hardness. It dulls cutting edges very quickly. Pre-boring is required for screwing or nailing, but it glues and finishes surprisingly well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, and polyurethane exceptionally well. A UV-inhibiting finish can help slow down the natural ambering/darkening process if the bright yellow color is desired to be maintained.
Notable Features
Contains high amounts of natural tannins and chemical extractives that give it its bright yellow color and superior rot resistance. It has high shock resistance and dimensional stability once dry.
