Yellow Pine (likely Southern Yellow Pine)
Pinus echinata (Shortleaf), Pinus elliottii (Slash), Pinus palustris (Longleaf), or Pinus taeda (Loblolly) · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States
- Hardness
- 690-870 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft depending on the specific species)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Non-durable; heartwood has some resistance to decay but the sapwood is highly susceptible to rot and insect attack without treatment
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn with prominent growth rings showing a clear transition between earlywood and latewood; generally straight grain with some uneven texture and minor knots
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is reddish-brown with sapwood being a yellowish-white; displays characteristic alternating bands of light earlywood and dark latewood
Hardness (Janka)
690-870 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft depending on the specific species)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Non-durable; heartwood has some resistance to decay but the sapwood is highly susceptible to rot and insect attack without treatment
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.00 - $4.00 per board foot for dimensional lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber, likely 1-5 years old since milling; shows typical light surface oxidation and industrial machine marks
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and harvested from managed plantations; FSC certification common
Common Uses
Residential and commercial construction, utility poles, flooring, decking, plywood, and pallets
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though resin buildup on blades can occur and knots may cause tearout or uneven sanding
Finish Recommendations
Takes most finishes well, though a wood conditioner or sealer is recommended before staining to prevent blotchiness from uneven resin distribution
Notable Features
Distinct pine resinous scent when cut; high resin content can make it heavy for a softwood; excellent fastener holding capability
