Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus palustris · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States
- Hardness
- 690 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn with prominent growth rings and some knot indicators
Color & Appearance
Golden-brown to deep amber with high contrast between earlywood and latewood, exhibiting a warm luster that deepens significantly with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
690 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 dollars per board foot depending on grade and whether it is reclaimed
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 50 to 100+ years old based on patina, surface wear, and oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Generally sustainable, widely available, plantation-grown and commonly salvaged as reclaimed lumber
Common Uses
Flooring, heavy construction, structural framing, decking, and millwork
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and tools, though high resin content can gum up blades and tearout can occur on figured or uneven grain
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, varnish, or penetrating oils; shellac works well as a sealer over high-resin areas
Notable Features
High resin and pitch content, distinct aromatic scent when freshly cut, excellent strength-to-weight ratio
