Hardwood or Softwood?
These are historical terms and should be considered as general classications.
Softwood is a term used to describe timber from coniferous or needle-leaved
trees and hardwood for timber from deciduous and evergreen broad-leaved
trees. Hardwoods are often chosen for their appearance and decorative
appeal or the fine grain, for example mahogany which is particularly suitable
for carving and shaping. These terms, however, do not necessarily describe
the durability of the timber.
December 2007 Newsletter