What characterizes softwood?

Softwood is characterized by being sourced from cone-bearing trees, also known as gymnosperms. These trees typically have needles and produce cones, examples of which include pine, cedar, and spruce. The wood from these trees tends to have a different structure compared to hardwoods, usually being less dense and often softer, which is reflected in the common terminology of "softwood."

The association of softwood with coniferous trees makes it distinct from hardwood, which comes from deciduous trees that lose their leaves annually. The terms "hardwood" and "softwood" can be somewhat misleading, as not all hardwoods are hard, and not all softwoods are soft, but the classification provides a useful framework for understanding different types of wood.

In addition to its source, softwood is generally less expensive than hardwood due to faster growth rates and the ease of processing. This economical aspect does not define the wood itself but reflects its market characteristics. Therefore, while softwood might often be less expensive, the most defining feature in this context is undoubtedly its derivation from cone-bearing trees.