Coast Live Oak (California Live Oak)
Quercus agrifolia • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Interlocked and irregular. Exhibits prominent medullary rays and a dense, closed grain typical of Mediterranean-climate oaks.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a reddish-brown to dark tan with a lighter tan sapwood. It features a medium luster and darkens significantly with age and oxidation.
Hardness Rating
2,410 lbf (Extremely Hard)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable. High resistance to rot and decay; however, it can be susceptible to insect attack if not seasoned properly.
Common Uses
Firewood, charcoal, rustic furniture, tool handles, barrels (historically), and heavy construction timber.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, specifically California and Baja California.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Minimal commercial value as lumber ($1.00 - $3.00 per board foot due to warping/checking issues); primarily sold by the cord for $400-$600.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut logs (less than 1 year). The bark is intact and the end grain shows minimal checking, though some oxidation has begun on the surface.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed; classified as Least Concern by IUCN. However, it is protected by various local California ordinances regarding removal.
Workability
Difficult. Extremely hard on tools, causing rapid dulling. High shrinkage rates make it prone to warping and cracking during drying. Gluing is moderate.
Notable Features
Distinctive thick, corky bark and very heavy weight. High tannin content can cause staining when in contact with iron metals.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or drying oils (tung/linseed) to highlight the dense grain. Needs slow, controlled drying before any film-forming finish is applied.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of thick fissured bark, clearly visible large medullary rays in the end grain, and regional context strongly indicates Quercus agrifolia.