Wood species
Knotty Alder
Knotty red alder · Alnus rubra
Red Alder is commonly selected for it’s knots, making it a lovely character wood. Our kiln-dried domestic Knotty Red Alder comes from the Pacific Northwest where it is the most abundant domestically available hardwood in the United States, making it quite affordable.
Key facts
- Janka hardness
- LowAbout 590 lb — soft; dents easily
- Stability
- AverageRadial ~4.4% · Tangential ~7.3%
- Grain type
- Straight with knotsSelected for knot character rather than clear FAS faces
- Rot resistance
- Interior defaultDecent decay resistance for its weight class; sold mainly for interior use
- Sustainability
- Least concernCITES unlisted · IUCN least concern
- Workability
- Very easyAll tooling cuts cleanly — beginner-friendly milling
About this wood
This wood is a popular choice for rustic cabinets and furniture. It is soft and dents easily, which means pieces develop patina and extra character quickly.
What we carry
- Character alder sorted for sound knots — rustic cabinets and furniture
Thickness is sold in quarters (4/4, 6/4, and so on) — see our hardwood thickness guide. Grades: NHLA grades.