Spalted Pecan or Hickory
Carya illinoinensis or Carya spp. · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 1820 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable (susceptible to decay and insect attack once compromised, as evidenced by pinholes).
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with prominent spalted zone showing dark zone lines caused by fungal decay, flat-sawn with surface checking.
Color & Appearance
Pale yellowish-white sapwood combined with contrasting dark brown to black spalted fungal lines and greyish weathering discoloration.
Hardness (Janka)
1820 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable (susceptible to decay and insect attack once compromised, as evidenced by pinholes).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 7.00 USD per board foot depending on the uniqueness of the spalting and board width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated several decades old, displaying natural weathering, drying checks, and insect bore holes typical of reclaimed or improperly stored lumber.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and not CITES listed; commonly harvested sustainably or sourced as reclaimed material.
Common Uses
Rustic furniture, accent shelving, custom turning, decorative craft projects, and specialty woodworking.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme density and hardness; prone to burning during cuts and chipping near spalted areas, but accepts glues and finishes well after proper preparation.
Finish Recommendations
Epoxy stabilization to fill checks and pinholes, followed by multiple coats of clear polyurethane or penetrating oil finish to highlight the spalting contrast.
Notable Features
Exhibits heavy spalting with classic zone lines, numerous pinholes from wood-boring insects, and a split check running across the face.
