American Beech
Fagus grandifolia • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight with a fine to medium uniform texture. The sample shows a flat-sawn face with characteristic small, dark reddish-brown medullary rays appearing as short, thin flecks throughout the surface.
Color Description
Heartwood is a pale straw/cream color with a slight reddish cast; sapwood is not clearly distinct. The wood exhibits a low to medium luster and typically tends to darken or yellow slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,300 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; poor resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack. Best suited for indoor use only.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture frames, cabinetry, brush handles, food containers (it is odorless and tasteless), turnings, and bentwood applications.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $6.50 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/New. The sample appears freshly milled with minimal oxidation, no visible patina, and clean edges indicating recent processing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification often available.
Workability
Generally good with machine and hand tools. It has high shrinkage and can be difficult to dry without warping. It glues, finishes, and turns well, and is excellent for steam bending.
Notable Features
Lacks a distinctive odor or taste. Known for its exceptional steam-bending capabilities and high density. The small, darker flecks (rays) are the most diagnostic visual feature.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all standard finishes well, including polyurethane, lacquer, and oils. However, it can occasionally blotch when stained; a sanding sealer or pre-stain conditioner is recommended.
Identification Confidence
High. The presence of the short, dark medullary ray flecks against the uniform, pale creamy-tan background is a classic and diagnostic identifier for American Beech.