What type of trees are considered hardwoods?

Hardwoods are defined primarily by the type of trees from which they originate, specifically broad-leaved deciduous trees and many fruit and nut-bearing trees. Broad-leaved deciduous trees, which lose their leaves annually, are typically known for their dense wood, making them categorized as hardwoods. This group includes popular species like oak, maple, and hickory.

Fruit and nut-bearing trees, such as walnut, cherry, and chestnut, also fall under the hardwood category since they possess similar characteristics in terms of wood density and structure. Therefore, both broad-leaved deciduous trees and fruit and nut-bearing trees are recognized as hardwoods due to their growth patterns and physical properties. This comprehensive approach underscores the classification of hardwoods in forestry and woodworking.