White Ash
Fraxinus americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse, and open grain with a distinct cathedral pattern on some sections; prominent growth rings characterize the flat-sawn face.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown; sapwood is beige to very light brown. High luster, and the wood typically yellows slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Perishable to non-durable; low resistance to rot and decay; susceptible to insect attack (specifically the Emerald Ash Borer).
Common Uses
Flooring, tool handles, baseball bats, cabinetry, furniture, and millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $9.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh lumber; likely harvested within the last 1-5 years and kiln-dried, as indicated by the clean surface and lack of significant oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN due to the Emerald Ash Borer infestation, though not currently CITES restricted.
Workability
Excellent with hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well. Steam-bends exceptionally well, though the coarse grain can cause some splintering.
Notable Features
High shock resistance and strength-to-weight ratio; faint odor when being worked; ring-porous structure provides a distinct texture.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; polyurethane or lacquer provide good protection, while oil-based finishes highlight the distinct grain patterns.
Identification Confidence
High; the strong growth ring definition, light coloration, and coarse, open-pore grain are signature characteristics of North American Ash.