WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger
Red Alder
Alnus rubra
Also known as: Western Alder, Oregon Alder, Pacific Coast Alder
Technical Spec Sheet
2026-07-14
Reference grain swatch
- Janka Hardness
- 590 lbf (2,624 N)
- Avg. Dried Weight
- 450 kg/m³ (28 lb/ft³)
- Specific Gravity
- 0.41
- Type
- Hardwood
- Grain
- Straight, occasionally wavy
- Texture
- Fine and even
- Durability
- Non-durable, susceptible to decay and insect attack
- Region
- North America
- Sustainability
- Sustainable — Highly sustainable, fast-growing pioneer species with excellent regeneration
Overview
Red Alder is the most common hardwood in the Pacific Northwest, valued for its excellent workability, fine texture, and ability to take stains beautifully. It serves as an economical alternative to cherry and other premium hardwoods in furniture and cabinetry applications.
The wood exhibits pale yellow to light reddish-brown coloration with minimal contrast between heartwood and sapwood. With a Janka hardness of 590 lbf and dried weight of approximately 450 kg/m³, it ranks as a softer hardwood with fine, even texture.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low - easy on cutting edges and tools
Gluing
Excellent gluing properties with all common adhesives
Finishing
Exceptional - accepts stains evenly and takes finishes beautifully, often used to mimic cherry
Steam Bending
Good steam bending properties for a lighter hardwood
Scent
Mild, slightly sweet aroma when freshly cut
Assessment
Strengths
- Excellent workability
- Good dimensional stability
- Easy to stain and finish
- Affordable
- Sustainable resource
Weaknesses
- Low durability outdoors
- Relatively soft for a hardwood
- Susceptible to insect damage
- Limited natural color variation
Common Uses
Furniture · Cabinetry · Millwork · Turnery · Plywood · Pulpwood · Veneer