Wood rankings
The top 12 of 155 species on six measures. Bars are drawn against the highest value among all 155 woods.
U.S. hardwoodsU.S. softwoodsImported woods
Stiffest
Modulus of elasticity at 12% MC, million psi. Top 12 of 155.
Strongest in bending
Modulus of rupture at 12% MC, psi. Top 12 of 155.
Heaviest
Specific gravity. Top 12 of 155.
Best stiffness for weight
Modulus of elasticity ÷ specific gravity. Top 12 of 155.
Least volumetric shrinkage
Green to oven-dry, %; lower is steadier. Top 12 of 155.
Softest
Janka side hardness, lbf. Top 12 of 155.