What type of wood is produced during the later growing season, characterized by density?

The type of wood produced during the later growing season that is characterized by density is latewood. Latewood, also known as summerwood, forms in the latter part of the growing season when the growth of the tree slows down due to factors such as reduced light and temperature. During this period, the tree produces wood cells that are smaller in size and thicker-walled compared to those formed in the earlier (spring) growing season. This results in a denser wood that contributes to the overall strength and durability of the tree.

In contrast, springwood, produced in the early part of the growing season, consists of larger cells that lead to a lighter, less dense wood structure. Softwood refers more broadly to the type of trees (mostly conifers) rather than the characteristics of the wood produced, and heartwood is the older, central wood of a tree that is typically dead and serves to provide structural support. Hence, latewood is specifically recognized for its density during the later growth period.