Likely Douglas-fir; alternatives include western larch or ponderosa pine. — Pseudotsuga menziesii

Likely Douglas-fir; alternatives include western larch or ponderosa pine.

Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood (conifer)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Softwood (conifer)
Origin
Native to western North America, especially the Pacific Northwest and inland mountain regions.
Hardness
Janka approximately 620 lbf — Soft.
Durability
Slightly Durable; heartwood has limited decay resistance and is not reliably insect- or weather-resistant untreated.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, fine-to-medium textured grain with pronounced earlywood/latewood striping; appears flat-sawn with subtle cathedral pattern and no notable figure.

Color & Appearance

Fresh heartwood is salmon to orange-red, with paler cream sapwood and occasional darker growth bands. It typically turns amber-brown and darkens moderately with light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

Janka approximately 620 lbf — Soft.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; heartwood has limited decay resistance and is not reliably insect- or weather-resistant untreated.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About $3–$8 per board foot for ordinary clear or dimensional stock; premium vertical-grain material may cost more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Recently felled or freshly exposed; bright end grain and minimal oxidation indicate months rather than decades of visible aging.

Common Uses

Framing, beams, flooring, doors, cabinetry, veneer, utility lumber, and poles; also used for architectural timbers and some instruments.

Geographic Origin

Native to western North America, especially the Pacific Northwest and inland mountain regions.

Workability

Machines and sands well, though resin, knots, and alternating earlywood can cause fuzzy surfaces or localized tearout. Glues, nails, and screws readily.

Finish Recommendations

Sand uniformly, seal resinous knots, then use penetrating oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane. Clear finishes emphasize the warm color and grain contrast.

Notable Features

Distinctive resinous scent, strong growth-ring contrast, good strength-to-weight ratio, and characteristic orange-red heartwood.

Learn more about Likely Douglas-fir; alternatives include western larch or ponderosa pine. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 9, 2026