Most likely cork oak (possible cork oak firewood/log); alternatives include other oak species or a bark-bearing hardwood stump.
Quercus suber (probable) · Hardwood; Mediterranean/European species.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; Mediterranean/European species.
- Origin
- Western Mediterranean: Portugal, Spain, southern France, Italy, and North Africa.
- Hardness
- Approximately 2,000 lbf Janka (Very Hard; cork oak values vary and published data are limited).
- Durability
- Durable; heartwood generally resists decay and insects, while wet bark and sapwood are less durable outdoors.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
The exposed top shows coarse, diffuse-to-ring-porous grain with broad growth bands; the sides are dominated by thick, deeply fissured bark rather than wood grain.
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut wood is pale tan to honey-brown with darker streaks; bark is dark gray-brown and highly rugged. Surface color will oxidize toward deeper brown.
Hardness (Janka)
Approximately 2,000 lbf Janka (Very Hard; cork oak values vary and published data are limited).
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; heartwood generally resists decay and insects, while wet bark and sapwood are less durable outdoors.
Value & Age
Rough, bark-on material: roughly $3–10 per board foot where available; clear sawn lumber may be higher.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The sample’s biological age cannot be determined from the photograph; darkened bark indicates mature growth, not necessarily an old finished object.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, veneer, barrels, firewood, and especially cork products from the bark; this irregular piece is more suited to rustic work or display.
Geographic Origin
Western Mediterranean: Portugal, Spain, southern France, Italy, and North Africa.
Workability
Hard, dense, and abrasive; cuts and sands reasonably when sharp tools are used, but bark causes tearout and irregular clamping/gluing.
Finish Recommendations
Clean and thoroughly dry; use penetrating oil or satin polyurethane on exposed wood. Stabilize loose bark and seal end grain to reduce checking.
Notable Features
Extremely thick, fissured bark is the strongest clue and is characteristic of cork oak; cork oak wood is heavy and strongly ring-marked.
