Likely Lacebark Elm; alternatives include Chinese elm or another mature elm — Ulmus parvifolia

Likely Lacebark Elm; alternatives include Chinese elm or another mature elm

Ulmus parvifolia · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Native to China, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam; widely planted and naturalized in temperate regions.
Hardness
Approximately 830 lbf Janka; Soft by the requested scale (borderline below Medium).
Durability
Slightly Durable; untreated wood has limited resistance to decay and insects, especially outdoors.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Usually interlocked or irregular grain with medium texture; the photographed bark is distinctive, but no sawn wood or end grain is visible.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood is pale to medium reddish-brown with lighter sapwood; generally moderate natural luster and may darken slightly with age.

Hardness (Janka)

Approximately 830 lbf Janka; Soft by the requested scale (borderline below Medium).

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; untreated wood has limited resistance to decay and insects, especially outdoors.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About $4–$10 per board foot for ordinary dry lumber, varying substantially by region, grade, and availability.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The tree appears mature, but the age of the wood cannot be estimated reliably from bark alone; likely several decades old.

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, boxes, turned objects, and general woodworking.

Geographic Origin

Native to China, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam; widely planted and naturalized in temperate regions.

Workability

Generally machines and glues well, though interlocked grain can tear during planing; predrilling is useful and sharp tools improve results.

Finish Recommendations

Sand progressively and use oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; a sealer coat can help control uneven absorption.

Notable Features

Highly distinctive mottled, exfoliating bark in gray, tan, orange, and brown patches; attractive bark rather than figured lumber is its primary identifying feature.

Learn more about Likely Lacebark Elm; alternatives include Chinese elm or another mature elm in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 10, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Likely Lacebark Elm; Alternatives Include Chinese Elm Or Another Mature Elm in the encyclopedia

View all →