Likely Black Locust; alternatives include honey locust or elm — Robinia pseudoacacia (alternatives: Gleditsia triacanthos, Ulmus spp.)

Likely Black Locust; alternatives include honey locust or elm

Robinia pseudoacacia (alternatives: Gleditsia triacanthos, Ulmus spp.) · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Native to the eastern and central United States; widely planted and naturalized elsewhere.
Hardness
About 1,700 lbf Janka—Hard
Durability
Very Durable; heartwood has strong resistance to decay and insects, especially outdoors.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight to irregular, coarse-textured grain; the photographed rounds are cross-cut, so end-grain pores are only partly visible.

Color & Appearance

Fresh heartwood appears yellow to olive-brown, with darker weathered bark and strong oxidation; sapwood is paler. Light exposure typically deepens the brown tone.

Hardness (Janka)

About 1,700 lbf Janka—Hard

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable; heartwood has strong resistance to decay and insects, especially outdoors.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $5–12 per board foot for sound, dry, usable lumber; irregular rounds are commonly worth less.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The standing/tree material appears recently cut, likely weeks to a few months; bark weathering does not reliably date the wood.

Common Uses

Posts, outdoor structures, fence rails, flooring, furniture, turning, and firewood.

Geographic Origin

Native to the eastern and central United States; widely planted and naturalized elsewhere.

Workability

Hard and abrasive but machines well with sharp tools; interlocked or irregular grain can tear out. Gluing and fastening are generally satisfactory after proper drying.

Finish Recommendations

Dry thoroughly, seal end grain to reduce checking, then use penetrating oil or exterior-rated polyurethane; sanding may require sharp abrasives.

Notable Features

Very heavy, dense wood with yellow-brown heartwood and excellent outdoor longevity; rounds may contain checking and reaction wood.

Learn more about Likely Black Locust; alternatives include honey locust or elm in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 21, 2026