Ash. (Fraxinus americana) Source: Eastern United States-principally Lake States, New England, Central States. Color Somewhat lustrous; cream to very light brown heartwood with wide lighter colored sapwood. Pattern: Straight moderately open grain. Characteristics: Heavy; hard; strong; stiff, high in shock resistance with excellent bending qualities and above average workability. Uses: Interiors; furniture; handles of tools and implements; sporting and athletic goods. Availability: Readily available as veneer (quarter sliced), (figured sliced); readily available as lumber. Price Range: Average.