Hickory (or Pecan)
Carya ovata / Carya illinoinensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,820 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture, but extremely resistant to mechanical wear.
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Grain Pattern
Straight but often wavy or irregular; predominantly flat-sawn displaying cathedral patterns and frequent small knots and mineral streaks.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is light to medium brown with a reddish hue; sapwood is a pale yellowish brown. High natural contrast between planks; tends to amber slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,820 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture, but extremely resistant to mechanical wear.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $5.00 - $8.00 per board foot for select grade lumber; $4.00 - $6.00 per square foot for flooring.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively modern installation (5-15 years) based on the precision of the tongue-and-groove milling and the clear intact polyurethane finish.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Common Uses
Flooring, tool handles (axes, hammers), cabinetry, furniture, ladder rungs, and fuel for smoking meats.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme hardness and density; causes rapid dulling of cutting edges. Prone to tearout during planing and requires pre-drilling for fasteners.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based or oil-based polyurethane are standard for flooring to protect against wear; blotching can occur with stains, so a pre-stain conditioner is recommended if coloring.
Notable Features
Remarkable combination of strength, hardness, and shock resistance. Has a distinct, pleasant scent when being machined.
