Pecan

Pecan is a dense and versatile hardwood prized for its warm golden-brown heartwood with darker streaks and straight, fine to medium grain. Native to the southern and central United States, it combines strength, durability, and stability, making it ideal for both functional and decorative woodworking projects.

The wood finishes beautifully, highlighting its natural color variations and subtle figure. Pecan is perfect for pen blanks, knife handles, turned objects, small furniture accents, and specialty crafts, offering a combination of aesthetic appeal and long-lasting performance.

Botanical Information

Scientific Name: Carya illinoinensis

Family: Juglandaceae

Origin: United States (Southern and Central regions)

Common & Trade Names

Pecan, American Pecan, Hickory-Pecan, Carya

Key Characteristics

Heartwood: golden-brown with darker streaks

Sapwood: pale and clearly defined

Straight to slightly wavy grain

Fine to medium texture

Strong, dense, and stable

Smooth natural luster

Workability

Machines, sands, and turns well

Glues, stains, and finishes easily

Excellent for carving and detail work

Stable and durable for precision projects

Health & Safety Note

Wood dust may cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation. Use proper dust extraction, respirator, and eye protection when working with Pecan.

Pecan wood, Carya illinoinensis, American hardwood, North American fruitwood, pen blank wood, knife handle wood, turning wood, decorative hardwood, artisan woodcraft, strong hardwood