White Ash
Fraxinus americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uniform texture. Shows a prominent cathedral figure due to the flat-sawn cut, characteristic of ring-porous hardwoods.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown; sapwood can be very wide and tends to be beige or light brown. Shows moderate luster; little color change over time, though it may slightly yellow with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Perishable/Non-durable; poor resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack (especially powder post beetles).
Common Uses
Flooring, tool handles (bats, hammers), millwork, cabinetry, furniture, and electric guitar bodies.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Recently milled/New stock; shows no significant oxidation, wear, or patina, and retains a bright, fresh surface appearance.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to the Emerald Ash Borer infestation; not CITES listed but availability is changing.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to steam bending. Glues, stains, and finishes well. Can occasionally cause minor tearout on figured pieces.
Notable Features
Remarkable shock resistance and strength-to-weight ratio. Lacks a distinctive odor. It is a ring-porous wood, making the grain very distinct.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer are common for durability. Takes stains very well due to open pores; a grain filler can be used if a smooth, glass-like surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the large, open pore structure, characteristic cathedral grain arch, and distinct contrast between the earlywood and latewood are diagnostic of White Ash.