Discolorations of hem-fir wood: a review of the mechanisms

The natural appearance of many wood species can be affected by a variety of undesirable “non-microbial” discolorations. This study reviews and summarizes the current knowledge of the causes of discolorations occurring in western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla [Raf] Sarg.), and amabilis fir (Abies amabilis [Dougl.] Forbes). Recently, such discolorations in Canadian hem-fir have become economically important and research has been renewed into the cause of this problem, with the intention of proposing preventive measures. Several factors potentially contributing to color formation in hem-fir products are addressed. Examples of discolorations found in other wood species are provided to illustrate the significance of such factors.

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