Douglas Fir — Pseudotsuga menziesii

Douglas Fir

Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Softwood
Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains)
Hardness
620–710 lbf (Soft)
Durability
Moderately Durable; good natural resistance to decay and fungi in heartwood, but susceptible to insect attack.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Take Wood Identifier with you

Snap a photo and identify any wood species in seconds.

Download Wood Identifier on the App StoreGet Wood Identifier on Google Play

Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight to slightly wavy grain with prominent, abrupt earlywood to latewood transition; flat-sawn to rift face showing elongated growth rings, small pin knots, and an embedded resin/pitch streak.

Color & Appearance

Pale yellowish-tan to light reddish-brown earlywood contrasted with darker amber-brown latewood bands; low to medium natural luster that deepens to a richer orange-amber patina with prolonged light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

620–710 lbf (Soft)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable; good natural resistance to decay and fungi in heartwood, but susceptible to insect attack.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

$3.00 to $6.50 per board foot for standard architectural/appearance grade lumber

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Modern/recently milled, likely kiln-dried or fresh-cut rough lumber showing minimal oxidation, fresh planar marks, and no surface weathering.

Common Uses

General construction and framing, timber framing, flooring, exterior millwork, paneling, joinery, and plywood manufacturing.

Geographic Origin

Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains)

Workability

Generally easy to cut and machine with sharp tools; can experience surface splintering or tearout across the abrupt transition between soft earlywood and hard latewood bands; holds nails and screws well but pre-boring is recommended near edges.

Finish Recommendations

Takes stains unevenly due to density variation between rings, often requiring a pre-stain conditioner; finishes well with clear penetrating oils, polyurethane, or exterior-rated finishes.

Notable Features

Distinctive resinous pine-like scent when freshly worked, pronounced density difference between growth ring bands, visible resin pocket/streak, and a strong strength-to-weight ratio.

Learn more about Douglas Fir in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 29, 2026