Olive Ash
Fraxinus excelsior • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Strongly defined cathedral grain with prominent latewood bands. Features a mix of straight and wavy patterns typical of turnery, with coarse texture but high natural luster.
Color Description
Creamy white to light brown heartwood with distinct darker olive-colored streaks or variegated bands. Sapwood is wide and light-colored, blending into the heartwood. It tends to yellow slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; perishable regarding ground contact. Highly susceptible to insect attack (Powderpost beetles).
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, tool handles, baseball bats, turned objects (bowls/goblets), and high-end cabinetry veneer.
Geographic Origin
Europe and Southwestern Asia.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$8.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on the intensity of 'olive' figuring.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/recently manufactured. The surface shows minimal oxidation, no visible wear or patina, and the crispness of the grain suggests a contemporary turned piece.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List due to Ash Dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus). Not currently CITES listed.
Workability
Excellent for steam bending and turning. Works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can provide some resistance due to its hardness. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Distinctive ring-porous grain structure that creates bold 'cathedral' peaks on tangential surfaces. It has no characteristic odor when dry and is known for its shock resistance.
Finish Recommendations
High-gloss polyurethane or friction polish for turned items to highlight natural chatoyancy. Wax or oil finishes also work well to maintain a natural feel.
Identification Confidence
High. The bold growth rings, distinctive light-and-dark 'olive' heartwood contrast, and coarse ring-porous appearance are hallmarks of European Olive Ash.