Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus spp. (e.g., Pinus palustris, Pinus taeda) · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States
- Hardness
- 690 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Non-durable depending on the specific species, with moderate resistance to decay and insects.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with distinct growth rings showing sharp contrast between earlywood and latewood, characteristic of flat-sawn to slightly rift-sawn pine.
Color & Appearance
Sapwood is yellowish-white while the heartwood is yellowish-brown to reddish-brown. The latewood bands are a significantly darker reddish-brown, creating a strong contrast.
Hardness (Janka)
690 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Non-durable depending on the specific species, with moderate resistance to decay and insects.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh cut or recently milled lumber, estimated under 5 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally abundant and sustainable, widely managed in tree farms and plantations throughout the southeastern US.
Common Uses
Construction framing, flooring, plywood, utility poles, railway ties, and heavy-duty structural applications.
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Workability
Tends to machine well, but can present challenges due to the stark difference in density between earlywood and latewood, which can cause uneven sanding and tearout. High resin content can gum up saw blades.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil-based stains, polyurethane, and varnishes well. Pre-conditioning or dewaxed shellac wash coat can help achieve an even stain application due to differential resin absorption.
Notable Features
High resin/pitch content, strong distinct grain pattern with heavy contrast, and high density and strength compared to other softwoods.
