White Ash
Fraxinus americana • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uniform texture. This sample displays a flat-sawn cathedral pattern with prominent earlywood and latewood bands and distinct ring-porous structure.
Color Description
Light to medium brown heartwood with wide, creamy white sapwood. This sample shows a pale straw to light tan color with a low natural luster; it tends to yellow slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,320 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to slightly durable; perishible regarding decay resistance and susceptible to insect attack (specifically the Emerald Ash Borer).
Common Uses
Flooring, tool handles (hammer, axe), baseball bats, cabinetry, furniture, millwork, and oars.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$7.00 - $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young lumber, likely kiln-dried within the last 1-5 years, showing minimal oxidation or patina.
Sustainability Status
Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List) due to the Emerald Ash Borer infestation, though not CITES listed. FSC certified sources are increasingly preferred.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes well, though it has moderate blunting effects on cutters. Responds well to steam bending.
Notable Features
Distinctive ring-porous grain similar to oak but without the large medullary rays. Known for its superb strength-to-weight ratio and shock resistance. Generally odorless.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability in flooring/furniture. Penetrating oils bring out the grain but require grain filler if a smooth glass-like surface is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the prominent porous springwood, light coloration without oak-like silver grain rays, and the specific cathedral arching are classic indicators of Fraxinus americana.