
Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus spp. · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States
- Hardness
- 690 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly uneven grain with distinct contrast between earlywood and latewood growth rings
Color & Appearance
Yellowish to reddish-brown heartwood with a paler yellowish-white sapwood, moderate natural luster, darkens slightly to a golden amber with age
Hardness (Janka)
690 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Low to moderate, typically $2 to $4 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent/modern lumber (less than 5 to 10 years old)
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable, widely plantation-grown with abundant FSC-certified supplies
Common Uses
Construction framing, subflooring, decking, utility poles, plywood, and general carpentry
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though resin can gum up blades and the hardness differential between earlywood and latewood can cause occasional tearout
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil-based stains, polyurethane, and paints well, though pre-conditioning or sanding is recommended due to the dense latewood bands
Notable Features
High resin and pitch content, strong structural integrity, distinct pine scent when freshly cut