Osage Orange (also known as Hedge Apple or Bodark)
Maclura pomifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the South-Central United States (Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas), but widely naturalized throughout North America.
- Hardness
- 2,620 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable; exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insects. It is considered one of the most decay-resistant woods in North America.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a fine to medium texture; end-grain shows ring-porous structure with distinct growth rings and tyloses-filled vessels.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a vibrant golden to bright yellow, which darkens to a deep russet or coffee brown over time with UV exposure. Sapwood is narrow and pale yellow to white.
Hardness (Janka)
2,620 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insects. It is considered one of the most decay-resistant woods in North America.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Typically $8.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on clarity and size; primarily sold as blink/turning blocks due to the small size of the trees.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The tree limb appears to be approximately 15-20 years old based on the visible growth ring count in the cross-section.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List; highly sustainable and often considered an invasive or nuisance species in some grazing areas.
Common Uses
Fence posts, archery bows (traditionally by Native Americans), tool handles, woodturning, dye production, and heavy-duty external construction.
Geographic Origin
Native to the South-Central United States (Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas), but widely naturalized throughout North America.
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme hardness and density; it has a high blunting effect on tool edges. Glues and finishes well, though the natural oils may require wiping with a solvent first.
Finish Recommendations
UV-inhibiting clear finishes are recommended to slow the transition from yellow to brown. Tung oil or polyurethane are common choices.
Notable Features
Produces a yellow dye when soaked in water; fluoresces under blacklight; extremely high fuel value (burns very hot); contains natural latex in the bark/fruit.
