European Beech — Fagus sylvatica

European Beech

Fagus sylvatica · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Europe (widely spread across Central and Western Europe).
Hardness
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay, rot, and insect attacks if exposed to moisture.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Straight and uniform with prominent fine, dark reddish-brown medullary rays appearing as small short dashes or flecks throughout the surface. Mostly quarter-sawn to rift-sawn orientation visible.

Color & Appearance

Light reddish-tan to pale yellowish-brown pinkish tone. Heartwood and sapwood show minimal distinction. Tends to darken slightly to a warmer golden hue with light exposure and age.

Hardness (Janka)

1,450 lbf (Hard)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay, rot, and insect attacks if exposed to moisture.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

$5.00 - $8.00 per board foot

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 processed lumber; clean machine-milled surfacing with light natural patina, likely milled within the last 1-5 years.

Common Uses

Furniture, bentwood chairs, cabinetwork, flooring, workbench tops, wooden tools, turnery, veneer, and cutting boards.

Geographic Origin

Europe (widely spread across Central and Western Europe).

Workability

Excellent workability with hand and machine tools. Planes smoothly and glues, stains, and finishes well. Responds exceptionally well to steam-bending.

Finish Recommendations

Takes virtually all finishes well including polyurethanes, lacquer, oil finishes, and shellac. Stains evenly, though clear topcoats preserve the natural pale pinkish-gold color best.

Notable Features

Characteristic short ray flecks (looks like tiny dark dashes), absence of distinct odor, excellent steam-bending capability, high density, and fine, uniform texture.

Learn more about European Beech in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified July 24, 2026