White Ash
Fraxinus americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,320 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when in contact with the ground.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a pronounced ring-porous cathedral pattern on the flat-sawn surface.
Color & Appearance
Light brown to nearly white sapwood with a slightly darker grayish-brown heartwood. Luster is medium and the wood darkens slightly to a warm amber over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when in contact with the ground.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard domestic lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent harvest, estimated less than 5 years old based on clean, untreated surface condition.
- Sustainability Status
- Severely threatened across North America due to infestation by the invasive Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis); listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN.
Common Uses
Tool handles, baseball bats, furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and bentwood items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; planes, turns, glues, and finishes well, though it can occasionally tear out during planing if grain is irregular.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, varnishes, and oils very well. Water-based or oil-based polyurethane provides excellent durability for everyday use.
Notable Features
Renowned for its high shock resistance, strength-to-weight ratio, and flexibility when steam-bent, making it the premier choice for tool handles and athletic equipment.
