Red (Knotty) Alder

Other Name(s)

Western Red Alder

Origin

Western United States

Color/Description

Tends to be a light tan to reddish brown. Color darkens and reddens with age. There is no visible distinction between heartwood and sapwood. Overall grain pattern and appearance is similar to Birch.

Workability

Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Sands easy. The wood is rather soft, so care must be taken to avoid denting it in some applications. Excellent gluing, staining, and finishing properties. It also turns well and behaves similar to Black Cherry.

Uses

Veneer, plywood, furniture, cabinets, millwork, pallets, musical instruments (electric guitar bodies), and chip/pulp wood.