Southern Yellow Pine
Pinus spp. (likely Pinus taeda or Pinus echinata) • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight with prominent wide growth rings; exhibits a distinct flat-sawn cathedral pattern on the face grain with a medium to coarse texture.
Color Description
Heartwood is reddish-brown to orange-yellow; sapwood is yellowish-white. The color typically darkens and reddens significantly over time with exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
690 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; heartwood has moderate decay resistance but is susceptible to insect attack; frequently used for pressure treatment.
Common Uses
General construction, heavy framing, pallets, crates, plywood, flooring, and utility poles.
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$1.50 - $3.00 per board foot (standard utility grade)
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently stored; minimal oxidation or patina suggests the sample is under 2 years old since processing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainably managed in plantations across the US.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though high resin content can gum up sandpaper and saw blades. Resists splitting during nailing.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high resin content; clear distinction between earlywood and latewood within growth rings.
Finish Recommendations
Acceptable for paint and film-forming finishes; however, resin bleed may occur. A shellac-based sealer is recommended prior to top-coating to prevent sap seepage.
Identification Confidence
High; the wide, dark latewood bands and distinct yellow hue are characteristic of the Southern Yellow Pine group.