Radiata Pine
Pinus radiata • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Primarily straight with a prominent flat-sawn cathedral pattern toward the center; medium to coarse texture with distinct growth rings showing dark latewood bands.
Color Description
Light yellow to creamy white sapwood with slightly darker tan/brown heartwood. Possesses a moderate natural luster; tends to darken to a yellowish-tan with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
710 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; low resistance to rot and insect attack without chemical treatment.
Common Uses
Interior furniture, shelving, construction lumber, plywood, crates, and general utility woodworking.
Geographic Origin
Native to a small area of California coast, but extensively grown in massive plantations in New Zealand, Australia, Chile, and South Africa.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$1.50 - $4.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/New. The wood shows no significant oxidation, wear, or patina, suggesting it was processed and milled within the last 1-3 years.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available as FSC certified due to extensive plantation farming. Highly sustainable.
Workability
Excellent for both hand and machine tools; glues and finishes well. Can be prone to splintering and can have resin pockets that gum up blades.
Notable Features
Distinct resinous pine scent; relatively lightweight; high resin content can lead to "bleeding" through paint if not sealed with a primer/shellac.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or shellac. If staining, a pre-stain wood conditioner is highly recommended to prevent blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High. The wide growth rings, color, and specific cathedral grain pattern are quintessential characteristics of plantation-grown Radiata Pine.