Honey Locust
Gleditsia triacanthos · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Central and Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,580 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Durable; highly resistant to rot and decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack. Often compared to White Oak for exterior longevity.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture; exhibits a distinct cathedral pattern when flat-sawn. Large pore structure is visible even in rough-cut states.
Color & Appearance
Medium to dark reddish-brown heartwood, often with a warm orange or pinkish cast. Thinner sapwood is yellowish-white. Wood tends to darken to a richer deep brown over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,580 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable; highly resistant to rot and decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack. Often compared to White Oak for exterior longevity.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly split to slightly aged (1-2 years); shows minor surface oxidation and typical weathering/dirt accumulation found in firewood or reclaimed timber.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); not CITES listed. Generally considered sustainable and often sourced from urban salvage or managed forests.
Common Uses
Fence posts, heavy construction, pallets, crates, furniture, flooring, and turnings. Historically used for tool handles due to high impact resistance.
Geographic Origin
Central and Eastern North America
Workability
Challenging to work with hand tools due to high density; can produce significant tearout during planing if grain is irregular. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it has a moderate dulling effect on cutters.
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) which highlight the reddish hues. Polyurethane or lacquer is recommended for wear-heavy surfaces like flooring.
Notable Features
Features a very high density and a bright, distinctive yellowish-orange glow under UV light. It lacks a characteristic odor but may cause respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.
