Pine, Radiata
Colour
Durability
Density in kg/m3

The TreeIn its natural habitat it usually grows to a height of 15m to 18m but in the southern hemisphere it tends to grow fast, reaching a height of 21 m to 25m in 25 to 30 years, usually with a diameter of 0.3m to 0.6m.
The TimberThe pale coloured sapwood is commonly 75mm to 150mm wide, clearly distinct from the pinkish-brown heartwood. The growth rings, although mostly wide and distinct show rather less contrast between early-wood and late-wood than those of Scots or Corsican pine, consequently the texture is relatively uniform. The average weight of the dried timber is about 480 kg/m3.
DryingWith care the timber dries with little degrade, however where spiral grain is present, appreciable warping may occur.
StrengthComparable to European softwoods.
Working QualitiesGood - The timber works reasonably well and clear material has little dulling effect on cutting edges. It planes to a smooth clean finish provided cutting edges are thin and sharp. Dull or thickened cutters tend to tear the wide zones of soft early-wood and around knots. The timber can be glued satisfactorily.
Latin NamePinus radiata
Also known asradiata pine, insignis (South Africa), Monterey pine (USA)
Wood TypeSoftwood
TreatabilityDifficult
MoistureMedium
TextureMedium
OriginSouth Africa