The classification of wood density significantly influences its usage, a critical factor when considering is crepe myrtle a hardwood. Arborists often debate this due to its unique properties. Crepe myrtle trees, commonly found throughout the Southeastern United States, display characteristics that blur traditional hardwood and softwood distinctions. Understanding the Janka hardness scale, a crucial metric for assessing wood density, provides additional insight into whether is crepe myrtle a hardwood.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Growing The Home Garden , from the video titled How to Root Plants from Hardwood Cuttings in the Winter (Viburnum, Crape Myrtle, Plum, and Peach) .
Deciphering Crepe Myrtle Wood: Hardwood or Softwood?
This article aims to definitively answer the question, "is crepe myrtle a hardwood?". We will explore the botanical characteristics of crepe myrtle, the criteria for classifying wood as hardwood or softwood, and ultimately determine where crepe myrtle falls within that classification.
Understanding Hardwood vs. Softwood
The terms "hardwood" and "softwood" are often misleading because they don’t necessarily describe the actual hardness of the wood. The classification is based on the tree’s reproductive method.
Angiosperms and Gymnosperms
The primary distinction lies in whether the tree is an angiosperm (flowering plant) or a gymnosperm (cone-bearing plant).
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Hardwoods: Generally come from angiosperms, which are deciduous trees (trees that lose their leaves seasonally). Angiosperms reproduce through flowers, which produce seeds with some kind of covering (like a fruit or nut).
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Softwoods: Generally come from gymnosperms, which are evergreen trees (trees that typically retain their leaves year-round). Gymnosperms reproduce through cones, and their seeds are "naked" or without a protective covering.
Microscopic Structure Differences
Hardwoods possess a more complex cellular structure than softwoods.
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Vessels: Hardwoods have vessels (also called pores) that transport water throughout the tree. These vessels contribute to the distinctive grain patterns often seen in hardwood lumber.
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Tracheids: Softwoods lack these vessels. They primarily rely on tracheids for water transportation. Tracheids are simpler and less efficient than vessels.
Crepe Myrtle’s Botanical Classification
To answer "is crepe myrtle a hardwood?", it’s crucial to understand its botanical family.
Crepe Myrtle Belongs to Lagerstroemia
Crepe myrtle trees belong to the genus Lagerstroemia, which is part of the Lythraceae family.
Lagerstroemia is an Angiosperm
Lagerstroemia species are angiosperms. This means they are flowering plants that produce seeds enclosed in fruits. This immediately suggests that crepe myrtle is a hardwood.
Characteristics of Crepe Myrtle Wood
While its classification as an angiosperm is a strong indicator, let’s examine the actual wood characteristics to confirm its "hardwood" status.
Wood Density
Crepe myrtle wood is known for its relatively high density and strength, especially compared to some softwoods. However, density alone isn’t definitive.
Grain Pattern
Crepe myrtle exhibits a moderately closed grain pattern that is not particularly coarse. The grain can be quite beautiful when properly finished, exhibiting a swirling pattern as the tree ages.
Workability
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Turning: Crepe myrtle is prized by wood turners due to its fine grain and ability to be shaped into intricate designs.
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Finishing: It takes finishes well, further enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Common Uses
While not as widely used as some hardwoods like oak or maple, crepe myrtle is suitable for various applications:
- Small furniture pieces
- Tool handles
- Decorative items
- Firewood (due to its density)
Is Crepe Myrtle a Hardwood? The Definitive Answer
Based on the botanical classification of Lagerstroemia as an angiosperm, and considering its wood density, grain pattern, and uses, crepe myrtle is indeed a hardwood. Despite its sometimes smaller size compared to other hardwoods, and the fact that its wood can be somewhat brittle if not dried properly, it meets all the technical criteria.
Crepe Myrtle: Hardwood or Softwood? Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about crepe myrtles and their wood properties to help you understand whether crepe myrtle is a hardwood.
Is crepe myrtle wood commercially valuable like oak or maple?
Generally, no. While crepe myrtle can be used for some small projects, its smaller size and tendency to warp make it less desirable than hardwoods like oak, maple, or cherry. The wood is also often knotted and twisted.
Is crepe myrtle a hardwood or softwood in the botanical sense?
Crepe myrtle is technically a hardwood because it’s angiosperm, a flowering tree. However, density is a much better indication of hardness than origin.
Why do some people call crepe myrtle wood "soft"?
Even though crepe myrtle is a hardwood, its wood is not particularly dense compared to other hardwoods. This lower density can make it feel softer and easier to work with than more traditional hardwoods, even if is crepe myrtle a hardwood.
What are some good uses for crepe myrtle wood?
Crepe myrtle wood, while not ideal for large-scale projects, can be used for small, decorative items like carvings, walking sticks, or small furniture pieces. Its unique grain patterns can add visual interest.
So, there you have it! Hopefully, you now have a better handle on whether is crepe myrtle a hardwood. Now you can confidently impress your friends with your newfound tree knowledge!