Common Alabama Urban Wood Species and their Benefits, Uses, and Fun Facts : Pecan

Pecan is a species of hickory, and it is native to southern areas of the US and Mexico. These trees need fertile, rich, and well-draining soil with a lot of room to accommodate their large root systems.

In terms of appearance, the heartwood is light to medium brown, while the sapwood is paler and looks yellowish brown. Pecan wood has a straight grain, but it can be wavy too. The wood has a medium texture with a low natural luster. Pecan wood responds well to steam bending and, like other types of wood on this list, it glues, finishes, and stains well.

The main benefits of pecan wood are:

• No characteristic odor
• Among strongest and hardest woods native to the US
• Rugged appearance and heavy, flowing grain pattern

In interior design, pecan is used primarily in flooring, paneling, tool handles, but also for cabinetry. This hardwood looks appealing and is a great choice for homebuilders and furniture makers. When pecan shows natural spalting, it is especially beautiful.

Pecan fun facts:

• Pecan wood has a natural protective layer that prevents the wood from cupping and warping 
• A pecan tree can live up to 200 years
• Native pecan trees are often over 3ft in diameter