WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger
European Ash
Fraxinus excelsior
Also known as: Common Ash, English Ash
Technical Spec Sheet
2026-07-14
Reference grain swatch
- Janka Hardness
- 1,480 lbf (6,583 N)
- Avg. Dried Weight
- 710 kg/m³ (44 lb/ft³)
- Specific Gravity
- 0.65
- Type
- Hardwood
- Grain
- Straight, with prominent growth rings
- Texture
- Coarse
- Durability
- Moderately durable, not suitable for ground contact
- Region
- Europe
- Sustainability
- Caution — Threatened by ash dieback disease, declining availability
Overview
European Ash is one of Europe's most valuable hardwoods, prized for centuries for its unique combination of strength, flexibility, and shock resistance. It has been the traditional choice for tool handles, sports equipment, and bent furniture, though the species now faces severe decline due to ash dieback disease spreading across Europe.
The heartwood is pale cream to light brown with a coarse texture and prominent growth rings that create attractive figure when quartersawn. Density averages 710 kg/m³ when dried with a Janka hardness of 1,480 lbf, making it slightly harder than its American cousin. The wood combines excellent strength with flexibility and toughness.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low to moderate - generally kind to cutting edges
Gluing
Good gluing properties
Finishing
Good - accepts stains and finishes well, can benefit from grain filler
Steam Bending
Excellent steam bending characteristics, traditional choice for bent work
Scent
Mild, no distinctive odor
Assessment
Strengths
- Exceptional shock resistance
- Excellent bending properties
- High strength and toughness
- Good elasticity
Weaknesses
- Poor decay resistance
- Threatened by ash dieback
- Can be prone to movement
Common Uses
Sports equipment · Tool handles · Furniture · Flooring · Boat building · Traditional Windsor chairs · Ladder rungs