Black Ash

Name	Black Ash (Fraxinus nigra)
Type	Hardwood.
Other Names	Also known as brown ash, swamp ash, basket ash, and hoop ash.
Sources	Grows in United States and Canada.
Appearance	Generally straight grained with a coarse texture. Grayish brown heartwood and light brown sapwood.
Physical Props	Moderately heavy and hard with medium strength, stiffness, and shock resistance. Softer, weaker and lighter than white ash. Poor resistance to abrasion and decay. Good stability in service. Steam-bends exceptionally well.
Working Props	Works well with hand or machine tools - easier than other ashes. Marginal turning and mortising properties. Glues satisfactorily. Holds nails and screws well but pre-drilling recommended. Stains and finishes well.
Uses	Used for interior trim, furniture (bent parts especially), basket weaving (splits easily along annual rings), dowels, plywood, and decorative veneer.
Comments	White ash is a better choice than black ash for applications such as tool handles where strength is important.