
Pecan / Hickory
Carya spp. · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1820 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to perishable, susceptible to decay and powderpost beetle attacks if untreated.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a coarse, uneven texture. Distinct growth rings with prominent contrasting pore distribution, showing typical faux-distressed or fly-specked factory finish overlaying the natural grain.
Color & Appearance
Medium golden brown base with yellowish undertones, accented by deliberate dark speckling and antiquing glaze typical of manufactured furniture finishes. Heartwood tends to be darker reddish-brown while sapwood is pale white to yellowish-brown.
Hardness (Janka)
1820 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to perishable, susceptible to decay and powderpost beetle attacks if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot for domestic lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20 to 50 years old based on modern furniture finishing styles and machine milling characteristics.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, widely abundant throughout North America, not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Tool handles, furniture, cabinetry, flooring, dowels, ladder rungs, and sports equipment.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Difficult to work due to extreme hardness and high density. Prone to burning when routing or sawing, and pre-boring is required for nailing and screwing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though factory finishes typically use catalyzed conversion varnish or lacquer over stained and glazed layers.
Notable Features
Exceptional shock resistance, high bending strength, heavy weight, and dense cellular structure. The surface shows artificial distressing (fly-specking) applied during manufacturing.