What are American Hardwoods?

Hardwoods are deciduous trees that have broad leaves, produce a fruit or nut and generally go dormant in the winter. America's forests grow hundreds of varieties of hardwood trees that thrive in this country's temperate climates. These varieties, or species, include oak, ash, cherry, maple and poplar.  The species guide portion of this website features 21 of the most popular hardwood species.

All the commercially available U.S. hardwoods are crafted into furniture, cabinetry, woodwork and built-ins. It's simply a matter of taste, preference and availability.

Certain hardwood species aren't recommended for flooring because they're not hard enough to withstand heavy wear and tear.

Softwoods are conifers, evergreen and cone-bearing trees. Widely available U.S. softwoods include cedar, fir, hemlock, pine, redwood and spruce. In a home, softwoods primarily are used as structural lumber such as 2x4s and 2x6s, with limited decorative applications.

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