ironwood

Ironwood is a common name for several hardwood tree species whose wood is unusually dense and hard. It does not denote a single species or genus; regional usage varies, and the name is applied to different trees in different parts of the world.

Notable examples include desert ironwood (Olneya tesota), a slow-growing tree native to the Sonoran Desert, whose wood is among the densest of North American timbers and highly resistant to decay. In temperate regions, several hornbeams in the genus Carpinus—such as American hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana) and European hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)—are sometimes described as ironwood because of their very hard, dense timber. Various tropical and subtropical trees are also called ironwood in local usage, though such references can be inconsistent.

Physical properties commonly associated with ironwoods include high density, great strength for their weight, and often interlocked grain. The wood can be difficult to cut, plane, or nail, and its workability varies by species. Colors range from pale to rich browns, sometimes with distinctive grain patterns, and many ironwoods are noted for durability and weather resistance.

Uses focus on applications that take advantage of hardness and durability. Desert ironwood is valued for carvings, small-scale turning, and durable handles; other ironwoods are used for tool handles, fine furniture, flooring, and outdoor applications where long life is desirable. Many ironwoods are slow-growing and long-lived, which contributes to their density and, in some cases, conservation concerns in native habitats.