European Ash
Fraxinus excelsior · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Europe and Southwestern Asia
- Hardness
- 1320 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, perishable; poor resistance to rot and insect attack, especially in smaller green branch samples.
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Grain Pattern
Straight and fairly coarse, though highly variable in branch wood; small twigs show tight concentric growth rings and a relatively large pith center.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium brown; sapwood is wide and can be beige to light brown. The freshly cut branch ends show a creamy white to pale yellow sapwood with a slightly darker core.
Hardness (Janka)
1320 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, perishable; poor resistance to rot and insect attack, especially in smaller green branch samples.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $5.00 - $9.00 per board foot for kiln-dried lumber; as a raw twig, it has no commercial timber value.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Approximately 2 to 4 years based on the diameter of the branch and visible bark texture.
- Sustainability Status
- Extremely threatened in many regions by Ash Dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus); listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.
Common Uses
Tool handles, sports equipment (bats, oars), flooring, furniture, and traditionally used for firewood/coppicing. Smaller branches are often used for slingshots or walking sticks.
Geographic Origin
Europe and Southwestern Asia
Workability
Excellent results with hand or machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes well. The green wood in the photo is highly flexible, making it ideal for steam bending or manual shaping.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to most finishes; for green wood projects like spoons or slingshots, a food-grade mineral oil or beeswax/oil blend is recommended after drying.
Notable Features
High shock resistance; lacks a distinctive odor; wood dust can be a sensitizer. Known for its 'springy' mechanical properties.
