Species Description: The sapwood of pine is a yellowish white, while the heartwood is a reddish brown, orange, or yellow heartwood. The sapwood is usually wide in second growth stands. Heartwood begins to form when the tree is about 20 years old. In old, slow-growth trees, sapwood may be only 1 to 2 inches in width. Southern Yellow Pine represents the least expensive, yet one of the most traditional flooring choices available. Yellow Pine is used for structural timber, structural grade plywood, building construction, boxes, baskets, crates, cooperage, pallets, millwork, woodenware, novelties, boat building, and applications requirirng hardness and good wearing qualities.