White Ash
Fraxinus americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Strong, prominent grain with distinct cathedral patterns on flat-sawn surfaces and straight, coarse-textured lines on rift-sawn areas; ring-porous structure creates high contrast between earlywood and latewood.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with wide, creamy-white sapwood; possesses a moderate luster and tends to darken/yellow slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; perishable regarding ground contact and susceptible to insect attack (specifically the Emerald Ash Borer in the wild).
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, tool handles (shovels, hammers), baseball bats, cabinetry, interior millwork, and electric guitar bodies.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$7.00 - $10.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing, likely 5-15 years since harvest; suggests contemporary kiln-dried stock based on consistent surfacing and light oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List) due to Emerald Ash Borer infestation; not currently CITES listed, but availability is fluctuating.
Workability
Excellent with both hand and machine tools; responds well to steam bending; glues, stains, and finishes well, though large pores may require filling for a glass-smooth finish.
Notable Features
Distinct lack of odor; known for exceptional shock resistance and strength-to-weight ratio; neutral color takes stains very predictably.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability; water-based finishes help maintain the light, natural color; oil-based finishes will enhance the golden amber tones.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of large, open pores, bold cathedral grain patterns, and the specific creamy-to-light-tan color palette is characteristic of North American Ash.