Some of the tallest trees in the world, such as redwoods, can grow to an average height of about 300 feet. The tallest tree ever recorded is Hyperion, a redwood standing at 380 feet, located on the West Coast of the United States.

Most types of wood float in water because they are less dense than water. However, ebony wood is actually denser than water, so it sinks.

Oak trees produce wood that naturally resists fungal and insect attacks.

The color of wood can change over time due to exposure to sunlight—a process known as patina.

Dendrochronology is the scientific method of counting tree rings to determine a tree’s age.

Most of the lumber used in the United States comes from pine or oak trees.

Cedar wood naturally repels moths.

Wood is a fairly good natural insulator.

Fruitwoods and maple wood are highly popular in the music industry, especially in the making of instruments like violins.

Mahogany wood was once so highly prized that it even sparked trade wars.

Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, and they store carbon within their trunks.

Driftwood is very popular in the art world, often used to create sculptures and decorative pieces.

Cork, used for products like wine stoppers and bulletin boards, is not made from wood but from the bark of the oak tree.

Extracting sap from trees—such as in the production of maple syrup—does not traditionally harm the tree or its wood, as long as it’s done properly.

The oldest known living tree is called Methuselah, named after the oldest character in the Bible. It is approximately 4,800 years old.

Petrified wood is ancient, fossilized wood that has literally turned into stone over time.

Purpleheart wood is a unique type of wood that turns a deep purple color after it is cut and exposed to air due to oxidation.

Japanese joinery is famous for creating strong wooden joints without the use of nails or screws.

Koa wood is a special type of hardwood found in Hawaii. It was once reserved exclusively for Hawaiian royalty.

There are ongoing developments to launch satellites made mostly of wood. Japan has already tested this with a satellite called LignoSat, which is roughly the size of a small box.

Xylem is the type of wood tissue responsible for transporting water from a tree’s roots to the rest of the plant.

Ancient Rome had regulations limiting how much wood could be harvested to help preserve their forests.