Birdseye Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Features a distinctive 'birdseye' figure caused by small knots in the grain that look like tiny eyes. The base grain is typically straight but can be wavy or curly around the birdseye figure.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium reddish brown; sapwood is generally a cream to off-white color. Luster is high, often appearing iridescent. It may develop a golden-amber patina over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable. Poor resistance to heartwood rot and susceptible to insect attack. Recommended for indoor use only.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, musical instruments (guitars and violins), specialty woodcrafts, veneer, flooring, and pool cues.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 to $30.00 per board foot depending on the density of the figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample; likely processed within the last 5-10 years based on the lack of deep oxidation or graying.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable. FSC certification is common.
Workability
Can be difficult to work with due to the erratic grain around the birdseye knots, which is prone to tearout during planing. Sanding is the preferred method for smoothing. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'eye' patterns are not a separate species but a growth anomaly. Known for excellent acoustic properties and high density. The dust can be a sensitizer for some individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Clear oil-based finishes or shellac are recommended to enhance the 'pop' of the figure and depth of the chatoyance. Avoid heavy stains that can cloud the natural figure.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic small, circular pock-mark grain variations against a cream-colored background are quintessential markers of Birdseye Maple.