Alder wood is straight grained and even textured. Pale yellow to reddish brown with indistinct boundary between heartwood and softwood. Alder is an excellent choice for staining, as it will take a clear coat, or a light to dark stain very well. Has also been used quite commonly to mimic the look of cherry if stained and finished properly. Since alder is a straight smooth grain wood it also takes painted finishes very well.
