Most likely black locust; alternatives include honey locust or another mature ring-porous hardwood. — Robinia pseudoacacia (probable)

Most likely black locust; alternatives include honey locust or another mature ring-porous hardwood.

Robinia pseudoacacia (probable) · Hardwood; temperate North American species.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood; temperate North American species.
Origin
Eastern and central North America; widely planted and naturalized elsewhere.
Hardness
1,700 lbf Janka; Hard.
Durability
Very Durable: heartwood is notably resistant to decay and commonly performs well outdoors; insect resistance is generally good.

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Grain Pattern

End grain shows prominent annual rings and a relatively diffuse-looking central area; face grain is not visible. No reliable figure or sawn orientation can be determined.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood appears medium brown to olive-brown, with a darker weathered outer zone; sapwood is likely pale yellow-brown. Outdoor exposure has muted the original color.

Hardness (Janka)

1,700 lbf Janka; Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable: heartwood is notably resistant to decay and commonly performs well outdoors; insect resistance is generally good.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $6–15 per board foot for sound, kiln-dried commercial stock; this weathered round piece has little board-foot value.

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 tree’s age cannot be estimated reliably from this photograph; visible weathering indicates prolonged outdoor exposure, not necessarily old wood.

Common Uses

Fence posts, outdoor structures, flooring, furniture, tool handles, turned work, and firewood.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America; widely planted and naturalized elsewhere.

Workability

Strong and wear-resistant; machines reasonably well but can blunt edges and may split when fastened. Gluing and finishing are generally satisfactory when surfaces are clean and dry.

Finish Recommendations

For exterior use, use a penetrating exterior oil or stain after cleaning and drying; for interior work, oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane are suitable.

Notable Features

Very heavy, strong, coarse-textured wood with excellent outdoor longevity and a characteristic yellow-brown heartwood.

Learn more about Most likely black locust; alternatives include honey locust or another mature ring-porous hardwood. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 6, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Most Likely Black Locust; Alternatives Include Honey Locust Or Another Mature Ring-porous Hardwood. in the encyclopedia

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