Southern Yellow Pine (likely Longleaf or Shortleaf)
Pinus palustris (Longleaf) or Pinus echinata (Shortleaf) • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with a prominent vertical/quartersawn orientation. Shows distinct transition between earlywood (light) and latewood (dark).
Color Description
Heartwood is reddish-brown with lighter yellowish-white sapwood. High contrast between the dark growth rings (latewood) and lighter, softer wood (earlywood); yellows/darkens significantly with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
690-870 lbf (Soft to Medium-Hard for a softwood)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; heartwood is resistant to decay, though it can be susceptible to insect attack if not treated.
Common Uses
Heavy construction (joists, beams), flooring, paneling, utility poles, cabinetry, and exterior decking (when pressure-treated).
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Ranges from $2.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and if it is reclaimed 'Heart Pine'.
Wood Age Estimate
Unknown; however, the tight growth rings suggest it may be from older-growth timber or 'Heart Pine', though the surface shows modern planed edges.
Sustainability Status
Generally abundant and sustainable; not CITES listed. Widely available as FSC certified or from managed plantations.
Workability
Works well with most tools, though high resin content can gum up saw blades and sandpaper. Sharp cutters are needed to avoid tearing the softer earlywood.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous/turpentine scent when cut; high pitch/resin content makes it heavy and strong for a softwood.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts most finishes well; however, a sealer or shellac is recommended to prevent resin 'bleed' through the finish. Polyurethane or oil-based varnishes are common for flooring.
Identification Confidence
High; the extreme contrast between earlywood and latewood bands, coupled with the resinous texture and straight grain, is a diagnostic characteristic of Southern Yellow Pine.