Name |
American Chestnut (Castanea dentata) |
Type |
Hardwood. |
Other Names |
Also known as chestnut, chinkapin, and sweet chestnut. |
Sources |
Grows in eastern half of United States. |
Appearance |
Straight grained and coarse-textured with low to medium luster. Narrow, light-colored sapwood and reddish brown heartwood that darkens with age. |
Physical Props |
Light and soft (dents easily) with modest strength and shock resistance. Excellent decay resistance. Poor steam bending rating. |
Working Props |
Machines very well but splits easily – pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails. Turns reasonably well. Glues and finishes satisfactorily. |
Uses |
In scarce supply today, but formerly used for furniture caskets, musical instruments, boxes, woodenware, interior trim, shingles, piling, fenceposts, railroad ties. |