White Ash
Fraxinus americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cathedral patterns with straight, open grain; large pores and prominent growth rings which are very characteristic of the species.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium brown, while sapwood is beige to nearly white. The sample shows a clear transition between the pale sapwood on the right and the darker heartwood on the left; it tends to darken slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1320 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, tool handles (shovels/hammers), baseball bats, and architectural millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $4.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on region and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh lumber (under 5 years) based on the light color, lack of significant oxidation, and clean surface texture.
Sustainability Status
Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List) due to the Emerald Ash Borer infestation; however, it is not currently CITES restricted.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; glues, stains, and finishes well. It has good steam-bending properties.
Notable Features
Distinctive ring-porous structure; relatively odorless; high shock resistance which makes it ideal for sports equipment and tool handles.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; polyurethane or lacquer recommended for durability. Using a grain filler is common if a glass-smooth surface is desired due to its open-pore structure.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct cathedral grain, ring-porous pore structure, and characteristic color contrast between sapwood and heartwood are hallmark traits of Ash.