Red Alder
Alnus rubra · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Pacific Northwest of North America, stretching from Alaska down to central California
- Hardness
- 590 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a uniform, fine texture and subtle flat-sawn cathedral patterns on the face
Color & Appearance
Light brown to pale yellowish-reddish brown with little visible difference between heartwood and sapwood; darkens significantly upon exposure to light and air
Hardness (Janka)
590 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 5.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively freshly milled or recently dried stock, approximately 1 to 3 years old based on surface oxidation state
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not on the IUCN Red List; widely abundant and considered sustainable
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture, interior millwork, doors, turned objects, and carving
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America, stretching from Alaska down to central California
Workability
Exceptional workability; turns, glues, finishes, and machines very well, though its softness requires care to avoid denting
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes exceptionally well; compatible with oils, lacquers, varnishes, and water-based finishes without requiring special prep
Notable Features
Remarkable stability after drying and a unique property of freshly cut wood turning a bright reddish color upon exposure to air before settling into a honey-brown tone
