In case of not solid wood products that have wooden patterns, the production companies try to help customers with the name which indicates the real wood it was inspired by. The fantasy name commonly has two parts: one of them is the name of the natural wood (e.g. oak), the other one refers to the color (e.g. mocha) but could refer to the origin (e.g. American) or to the surface (e.g. rustic) also. Almost all companies have different products under even the same natural wood name. This way the customer is in a hard situation if he or she would like to have an integrated look in e.g. the kitchen by choosing a laminated floor and countertop with the same pattern.
Let’s see some common types of wood of the temperate zone and their short characterization, without limitation (for raw, untreated surface).
Oak: The color is yellowish brown. The pattern is strong, gives an almost masculine look to the product. It is very durable because of the high tannic acid content. This is the most commonly used wooden material in furniture industry.
Pine: The color is from yellowish white to reddish brown, depends on the species. The pattern is strong, characteristic, nervure is frequently spotted with nodes. It is cheap, easy-to-work with, well stainable.
Beech: The color is reddish white (smoked flesh color). The pattern is homogeneous with hardly visible, soft nervure. It is well-turnable, well-bendable when smoked.
Maple: The color is white, sometimes with yellowish tint. The pattern is equable, soft designed because of the light color. It is sectile without splints, well bleachable and stainable.
Cherry: Reddish brown color which deepens with time. The nervure is decorative, softer  than oak. It is well polishable with grinding.
Walnut: The color is greyish brown. Lacquering shows the nervure at the best. It is well carvable. The nervure of walnut root is rich, multicolored and strong. It is exotic, therefore it’s expensive.
If the same pattern and color is important when choosing products with the imitation of wood, it is recommended to take a sample of the existent furniture (e.g. a shelf) or the other chosen sample product to the shop for comparing them.
Ask for help of an interior designer for the perfect accordance.