Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus palustris · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States
- Hardness
- 690 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with moderate resistance to rot and fungal decay
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Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn with prominent cathedral grain patterns and distinct growth rings
Color & Appearance
Golden-brown heartwood with contrasting yellowish-white sapwood, exhibits medium luster and darkens to a deep amber patina with age and UV exposure
Hardness (Janka)
690 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, with moderate resistance to rot and fungal decay
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 30 to 50 years based on growth ring spacing and surface oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern, widely available with sustainable forestry certifications
Common Uses
Flooring, heavy construction, structural framing, decking, and interior millwork
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though the strong contrast in density between earlywood and latewood can occasionally cause splintering or uneven planing
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, polyurethane, and varnishes well, though wiping down high-resin areas with mineral spirits prior to finishing is recommended
Notable Features
High resin and pitch content, strong distinct pine scent when freshly cut, high strength-to-weight ratio
