White Ash
Fraxinus americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America.
- Hardness
- 1,320 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, perishable when exposed to moisture and susceptible to insect attack (such as the emerald ash borer).
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uniform texture. Ring-porous growth rings are clearly visible on the cross-section.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is light to medium brown; sapwood is lighter beige to nearly white, showing typical weathering and oxidation on the freshly cut end grain.
Hardness (Janka)
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, perishable when exposed to moisture and susceptible to insect attack (such as the emerald ash borer).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated tree age of roughly 40 to 60 years based on ring count visibility and trunk diameter, with the harvested log being recently cut.
- Sustainability Status
- Critically impacted in many regions due to the invasive emerald ash borer infestation, listed as critically endangered by the IUCN in certain areas.
Common Uses
Tool handles, baseball bats, furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can occasionally blunt cutting edges.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, lacquers, and oils very well with minimal special preparation required.
Notable Features
Exceptional shock resistance, high bending strength, and flexibility when steamed.
