European Beech
Fagus sylvatica • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Typically straight with a fine, even texture. This sample shows a rift-sawn to quarter-sawn orientation, displaying characteristic small, dark medullary rays appearing as short silvery flecks or 'flecks' on the right edge.
Color Description
Pale cream color with a pink or golden brown hue. Heartwood and sapwood are not clearly demarcated. It turns more yellow/tan with light exposure and usually darkens slightly to a reddish-brown if steamed.
Hardness Rating
1,300 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, tool handles, musical instruments (piano blocks), bentwood chairs, and culinary items like cutting boards or spoons.
Geographic Origin
Europe (Central and Western regions), expanding into parts of Western Asia.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and steaming.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (Less than 5-10 years). The wood lacks heavy oxidation or deep patina and appears freshly surfaced/sanded.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It has good gluing, staining, and finishing properties. It is excellent for steam bending.
Notable Features
Odourless and tasteless, making it food-safe. Notable for tiny, dark spindle-shaped medullary rays that are highly diagnostic of the genus Fagus.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; polyurethane, lacquer, or oil. If used for food surfaces, mineral oil or beeswax is recommended.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight grain and distinct medullary ray flecks visible on the radial/right-hand surface are classic indicators of Beech.