Mulberry (likely Red Mulberry)
Morus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1480 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with distinct growth rings and ring-porous structure.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a vibrant yellow to golden brown that darkens significantly to a deep reddish-brown or amber with exposure to UV light; the sapwood is a contrasting pale yellowish-white.
Hardness (Janka)
1480 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for domestic hardwood lumber, though logs vary.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut log, estimated growth age of 35-50 years based on ring count.
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern, widely distributed, not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, fence posts, turning, small woodworking projects, boat building, and rustic construction due to high rot resistance.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it has a moderate blunting effect on cutters. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or UV-inhibiting clear finishes are recommended to protect the striking color transition from darkening too rapidly.
Notable Features
Known for its bright yellow freshly cut heartwood which photosensitizes into a rich golden-brown/amber. Excellent natural decay and rot resistance.
