Species and wood science

Hornbeam

European hornbeam is Carpinus betulus, a very hard, pale wood with fine texture.

It resists wear and has long been used for tool parts, blocks and other demanding small components. Its hardness also makes drying and machining demanding.

Hornbeam is not a true beech, despite the older English name ironwood or horn beech. Check the botanical name when buying.

More terms

European oak

European oak usually refers to Quercus robur or closely traded European white-oak species.

European walnut

European walnut is Juglans regia, also called English or Persian walnut.

European ash

European ash is Fraxinus excelsior, a pale hardwood with clear open grain.

Black locust

Black locust is Robinia pseudoacacia, a dense and naturally durable hardwood.