How many species of wood are there in the world?

The variety of woods in the world is impressive. Each species has unique characteristics that make it special, whether for its color, hardness, strength or specific uses. In this article, we will discover how many wood species exist, how they are classified and which are the most popular.

The diversity of wood species

There are an estimated 60,000 tree species in the world, according to data from the Global Tree Assessment. However, not all of these trees produce timber that is used commercially.

What defines a useful wood species?

For a timber species to be considered valuable in commercial or practical terms, it must meet certain characteristics:

1. Availability: It must grow in sufficient quantities.
2. Durability: Resistance to weather, moisture, insects and other factors.
3. Physical properties: hardness, density, flexibility and color.
4. Processability: Ease of cutting, sanding and treatment.

Of the 60,000 tree species, about 1,000-2,000 wood species are used in carpentry, construction, joinery and other applications.

Classification of wood species

Wood species can be divided into two broad categories:

1. Hardwoods (broadleaf)

Originating from broadleaf trees, they tend to be denser and more resistant.

• Examples:
  • Walnut: Famous for its resistance and dark tones.
  • Cherry: Valued for its warm color and soft texture.
  • Oak: Resistant and versatile, ideal for furniture and flooring.
• Common uses: Furniture, flooring, and high quality tools.

2. Softwoods (coniferous)

Coming from trees with acicular leaves (such as pines), they are usually lighter and less dense.

• Examples:
  • Pine: Abundant and easy to work with.
  • Cedar: Known for its resistance to humidity.
  • Spruce: Used in construction and basic carpentry.
• Common uses: Construction, packaging and less demanding jobs.

Examples of wood species by region

Each continent has unique species that have adapted to their climate and environment. Here are some outstanding examples:

North America

• Maple: Widely used in furniture and kitchen utensils.
• Walnut: One of the most appreciated for luxury furniture.
• Yellow pine: Common in construction.

2. South America

• Ipe: Known as ironwood because of its density.
• Mahogany: Famous for its reddish color.
• Lapacho: Resistant and durable, ideal for outdoors.

Africa

• Ebony: One of the densest and darkest woods.
• Padouk: Valued for its intense reddish color.
• Iroko: Often used as a substitute for teak.

4. Asia

• Teak: Weather resistant and widely used in outdoor furniture.
• Sandalwood: Known for its aroma and use in decorative carvings.
• Bamboo: Although not technically a wood, it is widely used as a material.

5. Europe

• European oak: Used in high quality flooring and furniture.
• Chestnut: Resistant and attractive.
• Beech: Ideal for furniture and kitchen utensils.

Factors influencing the variety of timber species

The diversity of wood species depends on several factors:

1. Climate: The tropics are the richest region in terms of biodiversity, hosting the majority of timber species.
2. Soil: Soil properties affect wood density, color and growth.
3. Human use: Some species are protected due to overexploitation, such as ebony and mahogany.

Most popular wood species and their use

Although the variety of woods is wide, only a few are widely used due to their availability and characteristics. Here are the most popular ones:

• Oak: For durable furniture and flooring.
• Pine: For its low cost and ease of use.
• Teak: Ideal for outdoors due to its water resistance.
• Cherry: Appreciated for its smooth and warm finish.

Conclusion

The planet’s biodiversity offers us an impressive variety of wood species. Although there are more than 60,000 tree species, only about 1,000-2,000 wood species are regularly used in various applications. From hardwoods such as oak and walnut to softwoods such as pine and cedar, each has a unique purpose and value.

When choosing a wood species, it is important to consider both its properties and its environmental impact, prioritizing wood of sustainable origin.