Southern Yellow Pine — Pinus spp. (e.g., Pinus palustris, Pinus taeda)
High, based on the characteristic growth rings, knot patterns, reddish-brown coloring, and common usage in vintage American drawer boxes. confidence

Southern Yellow Pine

Pinus spp. (e.g., Pinus palustris, Pinus taeda) · Softwood

Type
Softwood
Origin
Southeastern United States
Hardness
690 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability
Moderately Durable to Non-durable

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Grain Pattern

Flat-sawn with prominent growth rings and distinct knots, showing characteristic pine cathedral patterns on the drawer faces.

Color & Appearance

Light yellowish-white sapwood with reddish-brown heartwood, varying significantly due to recent sanding and refinishing work.

Hardness (Janka)

690 lbf (Soft to Medium)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable to Non-durable

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value
3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Mid to late 20th century (approx. 40-70 years old), indicated by the style of construction and oxidation on unfinished interior plywood parts.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES or IUCN red list, widely available and sustainably managed through plantations.

Common Uses

Construction, framing, flooring, utility furniture, and traditional cabinet box construction.

Geographic Origin

Southeastern United States

Workability

Easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though resin can gum up blades and tearout can occur around knots.

Finish Recommendations

Accepts stains, polyurethane, oil, and paint well; conditioning may be required for uniform stain absorption due to density variations between earlywood and latewood.

Notable Features

High resin and pitch content, distinctive pine scent when freshly cut or sanded, prone to dents due to moderate softness.

Learn more about Southern Yellow Pine in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 25, 2026