Olive Ash
Fraxinus excelsior · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to Europe and parts of Western Asia.
- Hardness
- 1,320 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if not treated or if kept in moist conditions.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Strong cathedral and wavy grain figure; bold erratic lines with distinct growth ring contrast characteristic of wide, ring-porous earlywood bands.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light brown sapwood with darker, olive-like streaks of grayish brown heartwood; develops a slightly warmer yellowish patina over time.
Hardness (Janka)
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if not treated or if kept in moist conditions.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 - $15.00 per board foot (Premium for highly figured or "Olive" veneer grade).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively modern sample based on the clean surface and lack of oxidation; likely under 10 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Threatened in some regions due to Ash Dieback (Chalara); not CITES listed but population is declining in the wild.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, decorative veneers, cabinetry, tool handles (due to shock resistance), and interior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Native to Europe and parts of Western Asia.
Workability
Excellent with hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well. Very flexible for steam bending.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes to preserve the cool gray/white tones, or oils/lacquers to deepen the contrast of the dark heartwood streaks.
Notable Features
Distinguished by its variegated color resembling Olive wood, though strictly an Ash species; possesses high shock resistance and excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
