Osage Orange (Botanical: Maclura pomifera)

Osage Orange Characteristics

This is a fine textured wood with a close grain. Due to the tree being small, it's rarely available in long lengths or wide widths. The tree grows with numerous stress checks (cracks) running throughout therefore the wood yeilded is often checked. The wood is, however, durable and attractive.

Color Range

The heartwood is bright yellow when fresh cut, planed or sanded and quickly oxidizes to russet brown. Sapwood is white to ivory.

Other Names

Bodare, Bodark, Bodock, Bois d'arc, Bow wood, Hedge, Hedge apple, Horse apple, Naranjo chino, Osage, Osage orange

Some Typical Uses

Turnings, archery bows, small accent pieces, boxes, accessories, pens

What's the Tree Like?

A short, scraggly, spiney tree that's often crooked and no more than 24" in diameter.

Osage Orange grows in

North America