Boxelder (Ash-leaved Maple)
Acer negundo · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- North America, widespread across the United States and parts of Canada.
- Hardness
- 720 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with fine, uniform texture. Characteristic boxelder markings are occasionally present, though the most prominent feature here is the stark heartwood staining.
Color & Appearance
Sapwood is a creamy white to yellowish-white, while the heartwood displays distinctive bright red to pinkish-purple central staining (often caused by fungal infection or injury by the boxelder bug), which tends to brown or gray over time with prolonged UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
720 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for figured/stained pieces; lower for plain utility lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently cut logs, estimated between 20 to 40 years old based on ring count visibility and fresh sap condition.
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern, fast-growing, non-threatened, and widely abundant across its native range.
Common Uses
Turning, bowls, decorative boxes, small specialty items, inexpensive furniture, crates, and pulpwood.
Geographic Origin
North America, widespread across the United States and parts of Canada.
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it is softer and can dent easily. Turns exceptionally well on a lathe, especially when figuring is present.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and clears very well. Oil-based finishes or modern waterborne polyurethanes help preserve the bright red coloration before it oxidizes.
Notable Features
Known for the brilliant red/pink heartwood coloration caused by defensive reactions to wounds or fungal attacks (often prized by woodturners). Unlike most maples, it has compound leaves.
