American Basswood (likely Tilia americana, based on the live specimen shown)
Tilia americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine, even texture; grain is inconspicuous and plain, lacking distinct figure like rays or knots in premium cuts.
Color Description
Pale white to light brown heartwood and sapwood with little distinction between them; wood is known to remain very light and pale over time, though it can yellow slightly with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
410 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; rated as being very susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Woodcarving (highly prized), hand-turning, venetian blinds, crates, boxes, picture frames, veneer, and internal furniture components (drawer sides).
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America, from Southern Canada to the Great Lakes and down to the mid-Atlantic.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.50 to $6.00 per board foot for kiln-dried lumber, depending on thickness and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Live sapling approximately 3-5 years old based on height, caliper size, and presence of nursery hydration bag.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not listed on CITES appendices; generally high FSC availability.
Workability
Excellent for hand carving; very soft and easy to work with tools. Gluing and finishing are straightforward, though the wood can be absorbent and may require a sealer.
Notable Features
Extremely lightweight for a hardwood; has a very faint, pleasant scent when worked; prized for its ability to hold fine detail in carving without splitting.
Finish Recommendations
Clear lacquer or shellac to preserve the light color; paint works exceptionally well due to the uniform surface; sanding sealer recommended before staining to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; identification based on leaf structure (broad, heart-shaped), drooping seed bracts visible on the sapling, and general growth habit in a temperate meadow setting.