Diamond Willow (most likely Bebb Willow or Pussy Willow)
Salix bebbiana or Salix discolor · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northern North America, specifically boreal forest regions of Alaska, Canada, and the Northern United States.
- Hardness
- Approx. 400-600 lbf (Soft to Very Soft); typical of the Salix genus despite its name.
- Durability
- Non-durable; low resistance to rot and decay when exposed to moisture, though the sapwood is often removed in finished pieces to showcase heartwood and diamonds.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight and fine-textured in the sapwood, but highly irregular and distorted around the 'diamonds' (cankers caused by Valsa sordida fungi) which create deep indentations and grain swirls.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to yellowish sapwood contrasting with a deep reddish-brown heartwood. The 'diamonds' often show darker brown or black fungal staining, and the sample shows significant graying and weathering at the fracture point.
Hardness (Janka)
Approx. 400-600 lbf (Soft to Very Soft); typical of the Salix genus despite its name.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; low resistance to rot and decay when exposed to moisture, though the sapwood is often removed in finished pieces to showcase heartwood and diamonds.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10 - $25 per raw stick/stave depending on the density and pattern of diamonds; not typically sold by the board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Deadwood or weathered sample, likely 2-5 years since death or harvest based on terminal oxidation and fibrous splintering at the break.
- Sustainability Status
- Common and abundant; not CITES listed or on the IUCN Red List; widely gathered from the wild rather than plantation grown.
Common Uses
Walking sticks, decorative furniture legs, rustic handles, lamp stands, and folk art.
Geographic Origin
Northern North America, specifically boreal forest regions of Alaska, Canada, and the Northern United States.
Workability
Easy to carve and sand when dry, though the irregular grain around diamonds can cause tearout. The wood is prone to checking (cracking) if dried too quickly.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss polyurethane or drying oils (linseed, tung) are recommended to enhance the color contrast between the sapwood and the dark brown diamonds.
Notable Features
Characterized by diamond-shaped depressions in the stem caused by fungal infection. When the bark is removed, these areas provide striking visual contrast. The wood is lightweight and relatively brittle.