White Ash
Fraxinus americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The image shows a classic flat-sawn cathedral pattern with prominent, wide-spaced growth rings and a slight wavy figure near knots.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, while sapwood is a very pale beige to white. Low to medium luster; tends to darken slightly to a more golden-yellow or amber hue over time and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Perishable to slightly durable regarding decay resistance. It has poor resistance to insect attack, particularly the Emerald Ash Borer.
Common Uses
Flooring, baseball bats, tool handles (shovels, hammers), furniture, cabinetry, veneer, and interior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 – $9.00 per board foot (subject to local availability and current Emerald Ash Borer impacts).
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears relatively fresh and recently milled, likely less than 2-5 years old, based on the high brightness of the sapwood and minimal surface oxidation/patina.
Sustainability Status
Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List) due to the Emerald Ash Borer infestation; however, it is not currently CITES restricted and FSC certification is common.
Workability
Excellent workability with both machine and hand tools. It responds well to steam bending, glues and finishes well, and holds screws/nails securely, though pre-boring is recommended to avoid splitting.
Notable Features
Remarkable shock resistance and strength-to-weight ratio. It is relatively odorless and produces a innocuous dust compared to other hardwoods.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Recommended to use a grain filler for a glass-smooth surface. Polyurethane or lacquer is common for durability. Clear coats preserve the light, natural aesthetic.
Identification Confidence
High. The distinctive 'cathedral' grain, coarse texture, and white-to-light-brown color palette are hallmark characteristics of White Ash, distinguishing it from Northern Red Oak which would show larger ray flecks.