Description

Also known as Rowan in some parts of the world, mountain ash are often planted as a small ornamental tree in urban landscapes and actual a member of the rose family of plants and is not a true ash. Known for its cluster or orange berries and silvery bark, mountain ash isn't really known for its lumber. That is unfortunate as its wood is hard, tight grained and well suited for a number of uses.

Like many ornamental trees, mountain ash rarely grows large enough to produce wide clear lumber, but pruning and small logs can be readily obtained in form of trimmings.

The sapwood of mountain ash is cream or off-white, while the heart wood is a medium brown and clearly demarcated from the sap wood. Checking and splitting can be problem in mountain ash, and losses during drying can be substantial. Once dried however, the wood turns and works easily, take detail well and can be sanded to a nice finish.

Like other woods with clear contrast between the heartwood and sap wood, pieces with considerable character and interest can be created when this contrast is used with care. Mountain ash is particular well suited for small turned items like boxes, pill cases, and tops.

Also known as:

• Rowan

For further information see:

• The Canadian Encyclopedia