Yellow Pine (Southern Yellow Pine)
Pinus spp. (e.g., Pinus palustris, Pinus echinata) · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern and Eastern United States.
- Hardness
- 690 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable to Moderately Durable; moderate resistance to decay, but vulnerable to insect attack if untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a distinct, prominent contrast between earlywood and latewood growth rings, mostly flat-sawn.
Color & Appearance
The heartwood is a yellowish-brown to reddish-brown, while the sapwood is yellowish-white. It has a moderate natural luster and darkens to a deeper amber or golden brown with age and exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
690 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable to Moderately Durable; moderate resistance to decay, but vulnerable to insect attack if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately recent, likely between 5 to 20 years old based on surface oxidation and condition.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally abundant and sustainable, widely managed in commercial tree plantations across the US.
Common Uses
Construction, framing, flooring, decking, plywood, utility poles, and general millwork.
Geographic Origin
Southeastern and Eastern United States.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the significant hardness difference between earlywood and latewood can sometimes cause uneven planing or sanding. Takes nails and screws well but pre-boring may be needed.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, and polyurethane well. Due to high resin content, a dewaxed shellac sealer or primer may be beneficial before applying certain finishes to ensure even absorption.
Notable Features
High resin content, distinctive strong grain pattern, good strength-to-weight ratio, and a characteristic resinous or pine scent when freshly cut.
