Osage Orange
Maclura pomifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- South-central United States, primarily originating from Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, though now widely naturalized across North America.
- Hardness
- 2,620 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse texture, showing distinct growth rings and some small knots.
Color & Appearance
Bright golden yellow to greenish-yellow freshly cut, which ages and darkens over time upon exposure to UV light to a rich medium brown or amber patina.
Hardness (Janka)
2,620 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on dimensions and quality.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled to moderately seasoned, approximately 1-5 years old based on bright yellow coloration and minimal surface weathering.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and considered sustainable.
Common Uses
Fence posts, archery bows, turnings, accent pieces, treenware, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
South-central United States, primarily originating from Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, though now widely naturalized across North America.
Workability
Very difficult to work with hand and machine tools due to extreme hardness and density; tends to blunt cutting edges quickly, but turns and finishes smoothly.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oils, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well; finishes highlight the natural golden luster and grain chatoyancy.
Notable Features
Contains natural chemical compounds that provide exceptional rot resistance; emits a unique yellowish dye when exposed to moisture.
