Knotty Alder
Alnus rubra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight-grained with a uniform texture; features frequent closed and open knots, occasional pin knots, and small 'pith flecks' that provide a rustic character.
Color Description
Light tan to reddish-brown heartwood with no visible distinction between sapwood and heartwood. The color deepens and reddens with age and light exposure, often mimicking cherry.
Hardness Rating
590 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if used in outdoor or high-moisture environments without treatment.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior millwork, picture frames, shutters, and electric guitar bodies.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America (coastal regions from Alaska to California).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $6.50 per board foot (standard 'knotty' or 'rustic' grade).
Wood Age Estimate
Contemporary/Modern; the cabinetry shows recent construction techniques and a fashionable rustic-modern finish common in the last 5-10 years.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not listed in CITES appendices. Considered highly sustainable due to rapid growth cycles.
Workability
Excellent workability; it is easy to machine, plane, and sand. Because it is soft, it is prone to denting and may require a sanding sealer to prevent blotching when stained.
Notable Features
Often called the 'poor man's cherry' due to its similar color and grain when stained. It is one of the softest hardwoods, making it easy to distress for a 'reclaimed' look.
Finish Recommendations
Clear satin polyurethane or conversion varnish is recommended for kitchen use. A pre-stain wood conditioner is essential if applying darker pigments to avoid blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of small tight knots, light reddish-tan color, and lack of prominent grain contrast is characteristic of rustic Alder used in modern cabinetry.