Osage Orange
Maclura pomifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- South-central United States, primarily Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, but widely naturalized across North America
- Hardness
- 2,620 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable, exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse texture and distinct growth rings
Color & Appearance
Bright golden-yellow to bright orange-yellow when freshly cut, aging to a rich dark brown or weathered gray with exposure to light
Hardness (Janka)
2,620 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderately high due to unique properties and limited commercial availability, typically $5 to $10+ per board foot depending on form
- Wood Age Estimate
- Roughly 1 to 5 years old based on surface oxidation and checking
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available in its native and naturalized ranges
Common Uses
Fence posts, archery bows, turned objects, waterfowl calls, boat trimmings, accents, and primitive weapons
Geographic Origin
South-central United States, primarily Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, but widely naturalized across North America
Workability
Very difficult to work with hand and machine tools due to its extreme hardness and density; tends to dull cutting edges quickly, but turns well on a lathe and finishes smoothly
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, polyurethane, or shellac; can be difficult to stain due to natural density and oils
Notable Features
Contains natural dyes (morin) that yield yellow colors, highly stable once seasoned, exceptionally dense and heavy, highly resistant to moisture
