
White Ash
Fraxinus americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America
- Hardness
- 1,320 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to decay and powderpost beetles
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight, open grain with a pronounced flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible on the face
Color & Appearance
Light to medium brown heartwood with a wide, distinct lighter sapwood ranging from pale white to cream; medium natural luster
Hardness (Janka)
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and powderpost beetles
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 6.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, approximately 1 to 3 years old
- Sustainability Status
- Critically endangered in parts of its native range due to the emerald ash borer beetle; not CITES listed
Common Uses
Tool handles, baseball bats, furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and millwork
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; machines well, glues, stains, and finishes reliably
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well with standard preparation
Notable Features
Exceptional shock resistance, high bending strength, and prominent ring-porous texture