Osage Orange
Maclura pomifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Central North America, primarily native to the south-central United States.
- Hardness
- 2620 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack)
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse texture, showing distinct growth rings typical of ring-porous hardwoods.
Color & Appearance
Vibrant golden-yellow to bright bright yellow freshly exposed, aging to a rich medium brown or dark amber patina when exposed to UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
2620 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on dimensions and quality.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be several decades old based on the deep amber-brown patina developing over the bright yellow core.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not on the IUCN Red List. Widely available in its native range and considered of least concern.
Common Uses
Fence posts, archery bows, turned objects, accent pieces, treenails, and primitive woodworking.
Geographic Origin
Central North America, primarily native to the south-central United States.
Workability
Very difficult to work with hand and machine tools due to extreme hardness and density. It rapidly dulls cutting edges and can be prone to burning during machining.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oils and varnishes well. Finishes such as penetrating oil or polyurethane highlight the chatoyance and grain, though UV-inhibiting finishes help slow the natural darkening process.
Notable Features
Contains natural chemical compounds that give it exceptional rot resistance and a distinct bright yellow color. Heavy and dimensionally stable once seasoned.
