Southern Yellow Pine (likely Longleaf or Loblolly) — Pinus palustris (Longleaf) or Pinus taeda (Loblolly)

Southern Yellow Pine (likely Longleaf or Loblolly)

Pinus palustris (Longleaf) or Pinus taeda (Loblolly) · Softwood (Gymnosperm)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Softwood (Gymnosperm)
Origin
Southeastern United States
Hardness
690-870 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft)
Durability
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; sapwood is highly susceptible to rot, blue stain fungi (visible), and insect attack without chemical treatment.

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Grain Pattern

Straight, medium-to-coarse texture with distinct, wide growth rings showing a clear transition between light earlywood and dark latewood; flat-sawn orientation.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood is yellowish to reddish-brown; sapwood is pale yellow to nearly white. This sample exhibits blue-gray fungal staining (sapstain) and will darken to a deeper amber color over time with UV exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

690-870 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Non-durable to Slightly Durable; sapwood is highly susceptible to rot, blue stain fungi (visible), and insect attack without chemical treatment.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

$1.00 - $2.50 per board foot (standard construction grade)

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Modern/Recent (under 2 years); the presence of blue sapstain suggests it was recently milled and stored in humid conditions without kiln drying.

Common Uses

Construction framing, pallets, crates, plywood, decking (if pressure-treated), and inexpensive furniture.

Geographic Origin

Southeastern United States

Workability

Works easily with both hand and machine tools, though resin/pitch can gum up blades and sandpaper. Glues and finishes well, though large latewood bands can cause uneven stain absorption.

Finish Recommendations

Seal with a washcoat of shellac before staining to prevent blotching; polyurethane or lacquer recommended for protection. Blue stain might require opaque paint if a uniform look is desired.

Notable Features

Distinctive resinous/pine scent; contains resin canals; highly susceptible to blue stain fungi which affects aesthetics but not structural integrity.

Learn more about Southern Yellow Pine (likely Longleaf or Loblolly) in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified June 24, 2026