MYRTLE WOOD
Myrtle is a treasure from the coastal forests of the American Northwest. It has a cream colored sapwood transitioning into heartwood that can range from tan to olive to gold, often with black streaks following the grain. The most desired pieces can be covered with fiddleback and/or burl figure. Also known as Oregon Myrtle, California Bay Laurel, and Pepperwood, it will freshen up your shop with its spicy aroma.
Characteristics of Myrtle
Origin of Wood Type | Northwest Coast USA |
Botanical Name | Umbellularia californica |
Specific Gravity | 0.85 |
Avg. Weight Per BF | 4.41 lb/ft |
Color Range | Yellow – Gold – Green – Brown; Often With Black – Brown Streaking |
Rarity / Availability | Moderately Rare |
Typical Avg. Width | 4″ to 20″ |
Typical Avg. Length | 8′ to 12′, sometimes longer available |
Avg. Waste Factor | 0.50 |
Wood Uses | Fine Furniture, Musical Instruments, Wood Turning, Veneer, Gunstocks, Knife Handles, Inlay Work, Joinery, 4.41and more |
Lumber Grades | Flitch, Quartersawn |
Other Trade Names | American Myrtle, Oregon Myrtle, California Bay Laurel, Pepperwood, California Laurel, California Olive, Baytree, Spice-tree, Pacific Myrtle |
Sample Pictures of Myrtle
Please Note: The photos below are examples of the species and may no longer be products available for sale.
All pictures of wood that appear wet, have been sprayed with denatured alcohol to show the natural color. We use denatured alcohol because it evaporates and does not affect the moisture content.