Most likely California live oak; alternatives include valley oak or another regional white-oak species.
Quercus agrifolia (likely) · Hardwood; temperate oak.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; temperate oak.
- Origin
- Native to coastal and foothill regions of California and northern Baja California.
- Hardness
- Approximately 1,120 lbf Janka; Medium hardness.
- Durability
- Moderately durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot.
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Grain Pattern
Not directly visible because the image shows a standing tree, not cut wood; oak typically has straight to irregular grain, prominent rays, and possible cathedral figure when flatsawn.
Color & Appearance
California live oak heartwood is pale tan to medium brown, often with darker streaking; sapwood is lighter. It generally darkens and warms with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
Approximately 1,120 lbf Janka; Medium hardness.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately durable; heartwood has useful resistance to decay, while sapwood is more vulnerable to insects and rot.
Value & Age
Roughly $8–$20+ per board foot where legally and commercially available; highly variable because local live-oak lumber is uncommon.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Cannot be estimated from a tree photograph; visible trunk size suggests a mature tree, not the age of any future lumber.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, turning, firewood, and occasional specialty lumber; historically valued for fuel and tools.
Geographic Origin
Native to coastal and foothill regions of California and northern Baja California.
Workability
Hard and often interlocked, making planing prone to tearout; it machines, sands, glues, and finishes reasonably well but can blunt tools.
Finish Recommendations
Dry thoroughly, then use penetrating oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane; test first because tannins and irregular grain may affect color and finish uniformity.
Notable Features
Dense wood, pronounced medullary rays, attractive oak figure, and often irregular branching; distinctive tree form is more diagnostic here than wood anatomy.