The wild service tree (Sorbus torminalis) is a slow-growing tree that is widespread throughout Europe but occurs only sporadically in light deciduous forests. Its wood is of exceptionally fine quality, so that it has traditionally been used for measuring and drawing instruments, machine parts and musical instruments. Cabinetmakers and woodturners value this wood for its warm, appealing color and excellent workability; furnishings made from this wood are certainly among the most beautiful. The wood of the wild service tree is one of the hardest and most valuable hardwoods in Europe. It is finely grained, very dense, almost pore-free, and has good bending strength. In the past, it was used to make billiard cues, screws for wine presses, woodturning, and musical instruments. The wood has a light yellow to slightly reddish color, often described as skin-colored, with a silky sheen and a warm appearance. In most cases, however, the wood is steamed, giving it a warm medium to dark reddish color very similar to that of pear wood. Curly figured trunks are particularly decorative, and the formation of a dark brown to almost black false heartwood also makes the wood special.
