Eucalyptus (most likely Red Gum or Blue Gum)
Eucalyptus spp. (likely Eucalyptus camaldulensis) · Exotic/Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to Australia; widely naturalized and grown in plantations across California, South America, and Africa.
- Hardness
- 1,100 to 1,600 lbf (Hard to Very Hard depending on specific species)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable; high natural resistance to rot and decay. Common for outdoor use due to density and high oil/tannin content.
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Grain Pattern
Typically interlocked, wavy, or irregular in larger logs; straight in some stems. Presents as a dense, uniform cross-section in logs with some radial cracking (checking).
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a vibrant reddish-brown to pinkish-orange; sapwood is pale yellow to thin light tan. The color typically deepens and darkens to a richer burgundy or brown upon exposure to light and oxygen.
Hardness (Janka)
1,100 to 1,600 lbf (Hard to Very Hard depending on specific species)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable; high natural resistance to rot and decay. Common for outdoor use due to density and high oil/tannin content.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15 to $50 per cord as firewood; $3.00 to $7.00 per board foot if processed into lumber or slabs.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Green to freshly cut (0-6 months). The bright orange/red heartwood and light sapwood indicate the logs have not yet weathered or grayed significantly.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally considered sustainable; many species are invasive in non-native regions (like California) and are harvested for land management.
Common Uses
Firewood (highly efficient), heavy construction, fencing, flooring, outdoor furniture, and railroad ties.
Geographic Origin
Native to Australia; widely naturalized and grown in plantations across California, South America, and Africa.
Workability
Difficult. High density and interlocked grain make it prone to tearout during planing. It is notorious for warping and checking (cracking) during the drying process.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes or polyurethane are recommended to highlight the rich color. Waxes also work well but require periodic reapplication.
Notable Features
Often has a medicinal, menthol-like scent when freshly cut. Highly prone to radial splitting as it dries due to high shrinkage rates.
