Wood and wood products are materials derived from trees and include timber, lumber, veneer, wood pulp, wood flour, pellets and chips. There are two basic types of timber: hardwoods and softwoods. Hardwood trees have leaves, uneven branching patterns, and relatively long growing cycles. Examples include ash, beech, cherry, cypress, elm, hickory, maple, oak, and poplar trees. Softwood trees have needles and retain their foliage throughout the year. Examples include pine trees and fur trees. Timber from hardwoods such as white oak, black cherry, and red birch is more expensive than wood and wood products made from softwoods. Higher-grade hardwoods have attractive grains and can be processed into veneer or lumber for furniture, cabinets, or flooring. Lower-grade hardwoods such as beech and hickory may check or split during drying.