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. balsaThe 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

LeavesHardwoods Softwoods

Broad leaves Narrow leaves

Comparing hardwoods and softwoods

ColourHardwoods Softwoods

Usually dark Light

Comparing hardwoods and softwoods

SeedsHardwoods 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 SoftwoodsMountain ash Radiata pineJarrah Hoop pineSilky Oak Cypress pineCedar Huon pineIronbark KauriStringybark