Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus palustris (Longleaf Pine) or Pinus echinata (Shortleaf Pine) · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States
- Hardness
- 690 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft for a softwood, but one of the hardest softwoods)
- Durability
- Slightly durable/Non-durable. Heartwood has moderate decay resistance, but sapwood is highly susceptible to rot, blue stain, and termite attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy with prominent, distinct growth rings and 'cathedral' patterns visible on the tangential (flat-sawn) surface. Distinct latewood bands are visible.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is reddish-brown to orange; sapwood is yellowish-white. The sample shows characteristic blue-gray fungal staining (blue stain) and darkens significantly with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
690 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft for a softwood, but one of the hardest softwoods)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable/Non-durable. Heartwood has moderate decay resistance, but sapwood is highly susceptible to rot, blue stain, and termite attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $1.50 - $3.00 per board foot for standard dimensional lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- 5-15 years since harvesting. The presence of blue stain indicates it was stored in a damp environment or not kiln-dried quickly after being cut.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable; widely available, FSC certified, and grown in managed plantations throughout the Southern US.
Common Uses
Residential construction, framing, decking, flooring, pallets, crates, and heavy timber trusses.
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though resin/pitch can clog saw blades and sandpaper. Nailing and screwing are easy.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or oil-based varnishes. Requires a pre-stain wood conditioner due to uneven absorption of stains between earlywood and latewood.
Notable Features
Strong resinous/turpentine-like scent when freshly cut. High resin content makes it heavier and stronger than SPF species.
