Osage Orange
Maclura pomifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Central North America, specifically originating in the Red River drainage basin of Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas, but widely planted across the United States.
- Hardness
- 2760 lbf (Extremely Hard)
- Durability
- Very Durable (exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular with a distinct ring-porous texture visible on the end grain.
Color & Appearance
Bright golden-yellow to bright orange when freshly cut, which rapidly oxidizes and ages to a rich medium brown or dark amber when exposed to UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
2760 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate to high for specialty lumber, approximately $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on dimensions and quality.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged (several years), showing typical surface oxidation from yellow/orange toward a muted amber-brown.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not threatened on the IUCN Red List. Widely available from domestic agricultural windbreaks and hedgerows.
Common Uses
Fence posts, archery bows, treenware, turned items, primitive furniture, and boat trimmings
Geographic Origin
Central North America, specifically originating in the Red River drainage basin of Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas, but widely planted across the United States.
Workability
Extremely difficult to work with hand and machine tools due to its exceptional hardness and density. It rapidly dulls cutting edges, but turns exceptionally well on a lathe.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oils, varnishes, and lacquers very well. Due to its natural oils and high density, wiping down with a solvent before finishing may improve adhesion.
Notable Features
Contains natural chemical compounds that provide extraordinary decay resistance. Yields a yellow dye when heartwood is boiled. Very high density and dimensional stability.
