Yellow Birch (stained) or Soft Maple / Cherry
Betula alleghaniensis (or Acer rubrum / Prunus serotina) · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America and Great Lakes region
- Hardness
- 1,260 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable to Non-durable (susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture; intended for indoor dry use)
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight with fine, even diffuse-porous texture; closed grain with subtle growth rings and gentle figure along contoured edges
Color & Appearance
Medium honey-brown to warm amber with an applied stain/toner; underlying natural heartwood is light golden-brown with yellow cast; soft satin luster under a topcoat
Hardness (Janka)
1,260 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable to Non-durable (susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture; intended for indoor dry use)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 to $9.00 per board foot (select grade rough lumber)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Finished piece approximately 15 to 30 years old, showing mild edge wear, small dings, and gentle topcoat ambering
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainably harvested across North America; FSC certified sources common
Common Uses
Furniture, decorative carvings, woodenware, kitchenware, cutting boards, cabinetry, turning, interior trim
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and Great Lakes region
Workability
Excellent for machining, shaping, and turning; closed grain glues well, takes stain readily, and sands smoothly with minimal tearout
Finish Recommendations
Pre-stain conditioner followed by oil-based or film-forming topcoats like lacquer or polyurethane; food-grade mineral oil/wax if used for food contact
Notable Features
Fine diffuse-porous structure absorbs stains uniformly; mild sweet scent when cut; non-toxic and food-safe once sealed
