Southern Yellow Pine (likely Longleaf or Shortleaf)
Pinus palustris (Longleaf) or Pinus echinata (Shortleaf) · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Southeastern United States.
- Hardness
- 690 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft) - among the hardest of the softwoods.
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; heartwood contains natural resins that offer some resistance to decay and insects.
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Grain Pattern
Straight but with a distinct, prominent cathedral figure on the flat-sawn face; features a high contrast between earlywood and latewood rings.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is reddish-brown to orange; sapwood is yellowish-white. The sample shows significant darkening (patina) to a deep honey-amber due to oxidation and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
690 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft) - among the hardest of the softwoods.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; heartwood contains natural resins that offer some resistance to decay and insects.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 - $8.00 per board foot for reclaimed or high-grade vertical grain material.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 40-80 years old, likely salvaged or original growth based on the tight growth rings and deep orange oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely available, though old-growth Longleaf is much rarer and often sourced via reclamation.
Common Uses
Flooring (very common in historic homes), heavy construction, bridge timbers, paper pulp, and plywood.
Geographic Origin
Southeastern United States.
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools, though resin/pitch can clog sandpaper and saw blades; holds screws and nails well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or oil-based varnishes work well to enhance the warm color; clear shellac is excellent for sealing in resin/pitch.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous/turpentine scent when cut; high resin content makes it heavier and stronger than most other pines.
