Black Locust
Robinia pseudoacacia · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the eastern United States, but widely naturalized throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.
- Hardness
- 1,700 lbf - Very Hard
- Durability
- Very Durable - Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks, making it one of the most durable domestic hardwoods.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a golden-yellow to greenish-brown, which darkens significantly to a deep dark brown upon exposure to light and air. Sapwood is a contrasting creamy white or yellowish color.
Hardness (Janka)
1,700 lbf - Very Hard
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable - Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks, making it one of the most durable domestic hardwoods.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate to high for lumber ($4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on form and local availability; often sold locally as round logs or posts).
- Wood Age Estimate
- The log appears to be from a mature tree, likely several decades old (approx. 40 to 70 years) based on bark development and trunk diameter.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not considered threatened by the IUCN. Readily available and invasive in some non-native regions.
Common Uses
Fence posts, decking, shipbuilding, outdoor furniture, railway ties, mining timbers, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Native to the eastern United States, but widely naturalized throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.
Workability
Difficult to work with both hand and machine tools due to its extreme hardness and density. It tends to blunt cutting edges quickly. Pre-drilling is required for screwing and nailing, but it glues and finishes surprisingly well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes penetrating oils, exterior finishes, and varnishes well. UV inhibitors are recommended for exterior applications to slow down the natural darkening/weathering to gray.
Notable Features
Contains natural chemical extractives that provide exceptional decay resistance without chemical treatments. It is heavy, strong, and exceptionally stiff, with high shock resistance.
