Yellow Pine (Southern Yellow Pine group, likely Loblolly or Longleaf)
Pinus taeda / Pinus palustris · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States
- Hardness
- 690 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; offers fair resistance to decay and weathering, though heartwood performs better than sapwood.
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn (plain-sawn) with prominent cathedral grain patterns and a distinct contrast between earlywood and latewood growth rings.
Color & Appearance
Light yellowish-brown sapwood with reddish-brown heartwood. The wood exhibits moderate natural luster and darkens to a deeper amber or golden-brown patina over time with exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
690 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; offers fair resistance to decay and weathering, though heartwood performs better than sapwood.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.00 to $4.00 per board foot depending on grade and availability.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 20 to 50 years old based on the stable appearance and oxidation patterns.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern status on the IUCN Red List. Widely available and sustainably managed in commercial plantations across the southern United States.
Common Uses
Construction framing, flooring, decking, plywood, utility poles, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though the strong contrast in density between earlywood and latewood can occasionally lead to uneven planing or tearing if tools are not sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, polyurethane, and varnishes well. Wiping down resinous areas with mineral spirits before finishing is recommended to ensure proper adhesion.
Notable Features
High resin and pitch content, distinctive pine scent, strong dimensional stability when properly dried, and prominent growth rings.
