Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus palustris / Pinus echinata / Pinus taeda · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States
- Hardness
- 690 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately durable; moderate resistance to decay and insects depending on the specific species and resin content
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a prominent flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible on the face
Color & Appearance
Light yellowish-brown heartwood with a paler, whitish-yellow sapwood; moderate natural luster that deepens to a golden amber with age and sunlight exposure
Hardness (Janka)
690 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; moderate resistance to decay and insects depending on the specific species and resin content
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 2.00 to 4.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or recently processed lumber, estimated under 1 to 2 years since harvest
- Sustainability Status
- Generally sustainable, widely plantation-grown and harvested with high availability and no CITES restrictions
Common Uses
Construction framing, flooring, decking, heavy timber construction, and utility poles
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though high resin content can sometimes gum up blades; accepts nails and screws well
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, polyurethane, and oil-based finishes well, though thorough sanding and sometimes a dewaxed shellac sealer are recommended to manage uneven resin absorption
Notable Features
High resin and pitch content, distinctive pine scent, strong structural strength-to-weight ratio
