Red Alder
Alnus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Pacific Northwest of North America, ranging from Alaska down to central California.
- Hardness
- 590 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly durable; poor resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attacks if left untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight and uniform with a fine, smooth texture. Flat-sawn surface showing subtle cathedral grain patterns, interspersed with characteristic small knots.
Color & Appearance
Light brown with a reddish or golden hue, showing little perceptible difference between heartwood and sapwood. Darkens significantly with age and light exposure to a rich reddish-brown.
Hardness (Janka)
590 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable; poor resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attacks if left untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 5.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively recently milled, within the last 1 to 5 years, based on minimal surface oxidation and pale coloration.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not considered threatened by the IUCN. Readily available and sustainably harvested in its native range.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, doors, millwork, turned objects, and core stock for plywood.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America, ranging from Alaska down to central California.
Workability
Exceptional workability. Machining, turning, gluing, and finishing are all very easy. Takes stains exceptionally well despite its soft nature.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts almost all finishes well. Oil-based finishes, lacquers, and water-based polyurethanes all perform exceptionally; often stained to mimic more expensive hardwoods like cherry or walnut.
Notable Features
Lightweight and relatively soft for a hardwood, with a subtle natural luster and distinctive small pin knots common in commercial grades.
