Black Locust
Robinia pseudoacacia · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Appalachian and Ozark Mountains of the Eastern United States; widely naturalized throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.
- Hardness
- 1,700 lbf (Hard to Very Hard classification)
- Durability
- Very Durable; exceptionally resistant to rot and insect attack, often used as a benchmark for decay resistance in North American hardwoods.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a medium to coarse texture; this sample shows a flat-sawn cathedral pattern with distinct earlywood/latewood growth rings and visible tyloses in the large pores.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is pale greenish-yellow to light brown, darkening to a golden brown with age. This sample shows thin yellowish-white sapwood on the left edge. It has a high natural luster and is highly fluorescent under UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,700 lbf (Hard to Very Hard classification)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; exceptionally resistant to rot and insect attack, often used as a benchmark for decay resistance in North American hardwoods.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $5.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on width and grade
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or surfaced board (likely less than 1 year since last cut) showing vibrant greenish-yellow hues that have not yet oxidized to deep brown.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; considered highly sustainable and even invasive in some regions outside its native range.
Common Uses
Fence posts, decking, outdoor furniture, boatbuilding, mine timbers, tool handles, and firewood due to high heat output.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Appalachian and Ozark Mountains of the Eastern United States; widely naturalized throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.
Workability
Difficult to work due to high density and hardness. It has a high dulling effect on cutting edges. Responds well to gluing and takes a high natural polish.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or marine-grade varnishes are recommended for outdoor use. For indoor use, it takes most finishes well, but sanding to high grits is necessary to handle the coarse grain.
Notable Features
Naturally glows bright yellow-green under ultraviolet light. High tannin content can cause staining when in contact with iron in wet conditions. Extremely rot-resistant without chemical treatment.
