American Elm
Ulmus americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 830 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked grain with a prominent cathedral pattern and irregular swirling around knots and branch inclusions.
Color & Appearance
Light brown to reddish-brown heartwood with distinct lighter yellowish-white sapwood, featuring a medium luster that darkens slightly to a warm amber with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
830 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot for live-edge slabs.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 10 to 30 years based on condition and modern live-edge slab furniture fabrication styling.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List, heavily impacted historically by Dutch elm disease.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, rustic slab tables, decorative veneer, and wheel hubs.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Difficult to hand plane due to interlocked grain causing tearout; holds screws and nails well, glues satisfactorily.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, conversion varnish, or hardening oils like Danish oil work well to highlight the grain and provide surface protection.
Notable Features
Stringy and tough interlocking fibers provide exceptional resistance to splitting, prominent growth rings, and characteristic dark knot inclusions.
