Ponderosa Pine — Pinus ponderosa
Medium based on visible knot structure, soft texture, grain pattern, and pale yellowish-brown coloration typical of soft pines confidence

Ponderosa Pine

Pinus ponderosa · Softwood

Type
Softwood
Origin
Western North America
Hardness
460 lbf (Soft)
Durability
Slightly Durable

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Straight grain with a prominent knot figure displaying concentric growth rings

Color & Appearance

Light yellowish-brown heartwood with pale yellowish-white sapwood, moderate natural luster, darkening slightly to a warm amber patina with age and light exposure

Hardness (Janka)

460 lbf (Soft)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value
$2.00 to $4.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 20 to 50 years based on surface oxidation, wear, and markings
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably harvested

Common Uses

General construction, framing, millwork, boxes, crates, interior trim, and knotty pine paneling

Geographic Origin

Western North America

Workability

Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools, planes and sands well, holds fasteners adequately though soft enough to strip easily, prone to slight tearout around knots

Finish Recommendations

Takes stains, paints, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well; sanding sealer recommended prior to staining to prevent blotchiness

Notable Features

Distinctive resinous scent, contains natural knots, light weight, moderate dimensional stability

Learn more about Ponderosa Pine in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 27, 2026