Eucalyptus (most likely Blue Gum or Saligna)
Eucalyptus globulus / Eucalyptus saligna · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to Australia; widely grown in plantations across South America, Africa, and Southern Europe
- Hardness
- 1,125 lbf (Medium) to 2,300 lbf (Very Hard) depending on specific subspecies/density
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood has good resistance to decay but sapwood is susceptible to borers
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked, stringy, and wavy with a coarse texture; visible rough-sawn saw marks on the surface
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light pink to reddish-brown; sapwood is pale cream to greyish-white with moderate luster
Hardness (Janka)
1,125 lbf (Medium) to 2,300 lbf (Very Hard) depending on specific subspecies/density
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable; heartwood has good resistance to decay but sapwood is susceptible to borers
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and regional availability
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or recently processed; showing light oxidation and rough-cut surface indicative of green or air-drying timber
- Sustainability Status
- Generally Sustainable; widely available as plantation-grown timber; not CITES listed
Common Uses
Heavy construction, utility poles, flooring, furniture, firewood, and paper pulp
Geographic Origin
Native to Australia; widely grown in plantations across South America, Africa, and Southern Europe
Workability
Challenging due to interlocked grain leading to tearout; high shrinkage during drying; hard on cutting edges; glues and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes or clear polyurethanes work well; requires careful drying and surface sanding to manage fiber pop
Notable Features
Distinctive medicinal or menthol scent when freshly cut; heavy and dense; high likelihood of internal stresses and warping
