Softwoods are gymnosperm trees, which have no flowers or fruits and instead usually produce cones. Softwoods are commonly referred to as conifers, and they usually have needles instead of leaves. Softwood trees found in the United States include cedar, fir, hemlock, pine, redwoods, and spruces. The term softwood comes from the fact that conifers tend to be less dense than hardwoods and are therefore easier to cut. Softwood, being easy to cut, is better suited for lumber applications and decorative purposes. Softwood is often the type of wood that you’ll find in the components of a building such as windows and door frames. Furniture is also mostly made from softwood for carving purposes.