Yellow Pine (likely Southern Yellow Pine)
Pinus palustris (or other species within the Pinus genus) · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States
- Hardness
- 690-870 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; heartwood has some natural decay resistance, but sapwood is susceptible to insects and rot if untreated.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and uneven, with a prominent, coarse texture. Flat-sawn with visible cathedral patterns and rough circular saw marks on the surface.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from reddish-brown to orange; sapwood is yellowish-white. The sample shows significant yellowing due to age and light exposure. Moderate luster.
Hardness (Janka)
690-870 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; heartwood has some natural decay resistance, but sapwood is susceptible to insects and rot if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $1.50 - $4.00 per board foot depending on grade and treatment
- Wood Age Estimate
- Sample appears to be 5-15 years old based on surface oxidation, accumulation of dust/patina, and rough sawmill marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable; abundant and widely managed in plantations; not Red Listed or CITES protected.
Common Uses
Residential construction, framing, decking, flooring, utility poles, and rustic furniture.
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Workability
Easy to work with both machine and hand tools. High resin content can gum up blades and sandpaper. Nails and screws hold well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paint and clear film-formers like polyurethane well. Recommended to use a wood conditioner or sealer before staining to prevent blotchiness from resin.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent; contains pitch/resin pockets; high contrast between earlywood and latewood rings; prone to splintering when rough-sawn.
