Pinyon Pine — Identification, Uses and Properties
Pinus edulis Pinaceae
Primarily used for fuel and charcoal. The species is highly valued for its edible seeds (pine nuts), which are a significant food source and trade item. Its small size and irregular grain limit its use for construction to utility lumber and fence posts.
SOFTWOOD NORTH AMERICA FIREWOOD
Taxonomy & Nomenclature
Botanical Name(s)
Pinus edulis
Family
Pinaceae
Wood type
Softwood
Local Names
Colorado Pinyon (USA), Two-needle Pinyon (USA), Piñon (Mexico), Nut Pine (USA)
Origin Region
North America
Main End Uses
Firewood · Pulpwood · Charcoal · Utility lumber · Edible seeds (Pine nuts)
Wood Identification Guide
Reference Colour
Yellowish brown
Texture
Medium to fine
Grain
Irregular and knotty
Sapwood
Creamy white to pale yellow
Notes
Pinyon Pine is identified by its yellow to yellow-brown heartwood and the frequent presence of knots due to its short, stout trunk. It has a medium to fine texture and a distinct resinous odor when worked or burned. Endgrain features numerous, evenly spaced large resin canals.
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Log Description
Tree height
30 – 50 ft
Tree height
9 – 15 m
Diameter
30-60 cm cm
Buoyancy
Floats
Diameter
11.8-23.6 in in
Physical & Mechanical Properties
Density
595 g/cm³ @ 12% MC
Density
37.1 lb/ft³
Monnin Hardness
860
Janka Hardness
860 lbf
Janka Hardness
3,825 N
Volumetric Shrinkage Coefficient
9.9 % / %
Tangential Shrinkage
5.2 %
Radial Shrinkage
4.6 %
T/R Anisotropy Ratio
1.1
Crushing Strength
44.1 MPa
Crushing Strength
6,396 psi
Bending Strength (MOR)
53.8 MPa
Bending Strength (MOR)
7,803 psi
Modulus of Elasticity (MOE)
7,860 MPa
Modulus of Elasticity (MOE)
1,139,997 psi
Durability & Treatment
Resistance to Decay
MediocreCITES & Trade Restrictions
CITES Status
Unlisted
Trade Notes
Classified by the IUCN as a species of Least Concern.
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