Hardwoods and Softwoods

The terms ‘softwood’ and ‘hardwood’ do not indicate softness or hardness of particular timbers. In fact, some hardwoods are softer and lighter than softwoods. e.g. balsa The main differences between hardwoods and softwoods are botanical, and relate to the way the tree grows and the timber is laid down.

Hardwoods and Softwoods Hardwoods Softwoods Angiosperm Gymnosperm

Comparing hardwoods and softwoods Leaves Hardwoods Softwoods Broad leaves Narrow leaves

Comparing hardwoods and softwoods Colour Hardwoods Softwoods Usually dark Light

Comparing hardwoods and softwoods Seeds Hardwoods Softwoods Seeds in fruit Seeds in cones

Comparing hardwoods and softwoods Cell Structure Hardwoods Softwoods Pored wood Non-Pored wood

Examples of hardwoods and softwoods Hardwoods Softwoods Mountain ash Radiata pine Jarrah Hoop pine Silky Oak Cypress pine Cedar Huon pine Ironbark Kauri Stringybark