White Pine (Eastern White Pine) / Western Redcedar or Ash (Alternative) — Pinus strobus
Medium-High. Identification based on prominent parallel growth rings, light pale cream-yellow coloration, fine even texture, and characteristic soft-wood poreless grain structure. confidence

White Pine (Eastern White Pine) / Western Redcedar or Ash (Alternative)

Pinus strobus · Softwood

Type
Softwood
Origin
Eastern North America (Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada).
Hardness
380 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability
Slightly Durable to Moderately Durable; fair decay resistance in heartwood, vulnerable to insects and ground contact unless treated.

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Grain Pattern

Straight, fine-grained vertical face with prominent growth ring bands. Displays light quartersawn/rift-sawn growth lines with clean, uniform fiber alignment.

Color & Appearance

Pale yellowish-white to light straw-brown heartwood with creamy white sapwood. Low sheen with slight natural iridescence under directional lighting; ages to a golden yellow-brown upon UV exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

380 lbf (Very Soft)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable to Moderately Durable; fair decay resistance in heartwood, vulnerable to insects and ground contact unless treated.

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value
$4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade, clear quality, and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber cut; newly surfaced or sanded board showing minimal surface oxidation, consistent with recently milled material.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Widely available from sustainably managed forests with FSC certification options.

Common Uses

Millwork, interior trim, cabinetry, paneling, musical instrument soundboards, boat building, carving, patternmaking, and light construction.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America (Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada).

Workability

Exceptionally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Cuts cleanly with minimal tearout, glues and finishes exceptionally well, though very soft surface is prone to denting.

Finish Recommendations

Accepts clear coats (polyurethane, lacquer, varnish) easily. Pre-stain wood conditioner is strongly recommended prior to staining to prevent blotchiness.

Notable Features

Mild, pleasant resinous pine scent when cut; light weight and excellent dimensional stability; soft texture easy to plane smooth.

Learn more about White Pine (Eastern White Pine) / Western Redcedar or Ash (Alternative) in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified July 26, 2026