Black Locust
Robinia pseudoacacia · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the eastern United States, but widely naturalized throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.
- Hardness
- 1700 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks, making it one of the most durable domestic hardwoods.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Ring-porous structure.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a golden brown to greenish-yellow, darkening significantly over time to a deep dark brown with exposure to light. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white and is typically very narrow.
Hardness (Janka)
1700 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks, making it one of the most durable domestic hardwoods.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for lumber, though frequently sold locally as round logs or firewood.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut log with vibrant inner heartwood colors and moist end grain, likely harvested within the last few weeks or months.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not threatened on the IUCN Red List. Abundant and considered invasive in some non-native regions.
Common Uses
Fence posts, decking, shipbuilding, outdoor furniture, railway ties, turnings, and rugged flooring.
Geographic Origin
Native to the eastern United States, but widely naturalized throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.
Workability
Difficult to work with hand and machine tools due to its extreme hardness and density. Frequently causes severe blunting of cutting edges. Pre-drilling is required for screwing and nailing. Glues and finishes well despite natural oils.
Finish Recommendations
Takes exterior oils, varnishes, and marine finishes well. Due to its high density and natural oils, film-forming finishes may require careful surface preparation and wiping down with a solvent before application.
Notable Features
Contains natural toxins that contribute to its extreme rot resistance. Very high shock resistance and dimensional stability once dry. Heartwood dust can be an irritant.
