Chinese Elm (or Siberian Elm)
Ulmus parvifolia (or Ulmus pumila) • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked, coarse, and irregular. Shows distinct ring-porous structure and zig-zag (ulmiform) latewood pores typical of the Ulmus genus. Fibrous and stringy when split.
Color Description
Heartwood is reddish-brown to light tan; sapwood is off-white to yellowish-tan. It develops a grayish patina when weathered and darkens slightly over time with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,020 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable. Poor resistance to decay and insect attack, especially if left in contact with the ground or moisture.
Common Uses
Furniture, hockey sticks, flooring, archery bows, woodturning (bowls), and frequently as firewood in urban areas.
Geographic Origin
Native to Eastern Asia (China, Japan, Korea). Widely naturalized throughout North America as an ornamental or invasive street tree.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$1.00 - $3.00 per board foot. Value is low as it is often considered a nuisance tree and is rarely commercially harvested for high-end lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly felled to 6 months old. Minimal checkering on the end grain suggest these were cut relatively recently, though the bark shows signs of a mature tree (30-50 years old).
Sustainability Status
Least Concern. Not CITES listed. It is considered an invasive species in many parts of North America and is highly sustainable to harvest.
Workability
Difficult. The interlocked grain makes it prone to tearout during planing and surfacing. However, it glues and finishes well. It is very difficult to split by hand due to the intertwined fibers.
Notable Features
Features a distinct, slightly unpleasant cross-like or damp scent when fresh. Known for excellent shock resistance and flexibility once steamed.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer works well for utility items. For decorative grain, penetrating oils (like Tung or Danish oil) highlight the irregular figure.
Identification Confidence
High. The thick, flaky, 'puzzle-piece' bark texture combined with the fibrous, stringy wood fibers and ring-porous end grain are classic indicators of Chinese or Siberian Elm.