Most likely Honey Locust; alternatives include Black Locust or a thorny ornamental locust — Gleditsia triacanthos

Most likely Honey Locust; alternatives include Black Locust or a thorny ornamental locust

Gleditsia triacanthos · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America; widely planted elsewhere as a street and ornamental tree.
Hardness
Approximately 1,580 lbf Janka — Hard.
Durability
Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay and insects, though exposed sapwood deteriorates faster.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to irregular grain, coarse texture, with prominent growth rings and darker knots; round-sawn log ends are visible rather than finished face grain.

Color & Appearance

Fresh heartwood is yellow-brown to warm brown, with paler sapwood and strong darkening around knots; it typically deepens and browns with oxidation and light exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

Approximately 1,580 lbf Janka — Hard.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay and insects, though exposed sapwood deteriorates faster.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

About $4–10 per board foot for usable, milled material; rough firewood/log value is substantially lower.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Recently cut green or partially seasoned logs; the image shows fresh cut surfaces and bark, so the tree’s age cannot be estimated reliably.

Common Uses

Fence posts, outdoor furniture, flooring, cabinetry, turnery, tool handles, and firewood.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America; widely planted elsewhere as a street and ornamental tree.

Workability

Machines reasonably well but can be abrasive and irregular around knots; predrilling is advisable, and drying may cause checking or distortion.

Finish Recommendations

Dry thoroughly, sand carefully, and use penetrating oil, varnish, lacquer, or polyurethane; seal end grain to reduce checking.

Notable Features

Distinctive thorny bark/branch structure, coarse texture, strong growth-ring contrast, and heavy, dense wood.

Learn more about Most likely Honey Locust; alternatives include Black Locust or a thorny ornamental locust in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 16, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Most Likely Honey Locust; Alternatives Include Black Locust Or A Thorny Ornamental Locust in the encyclopedia

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