Spalted Maple
Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple) or Acer rubrum (Red Maple) • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly wavy but heavily figured with spalting (black zone lines caused by fungal decay) and some light curl. The sample shows a flat-sawn orientation.
Color Description
Presents a pale cream to off-white base color. The spalting creates dramatic dark brown to black irregular lines and streaks. Some light brownish-tan regions of oxidation are visible.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf to 1450 lbf (Medium to Hard depending on Soft vs. Hard Maple species and degree of decay)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to rot and insect attack. The spalting process itself is a form of early-stage fungal decay which softens the wood fibers.
Common Uses
Furniture, decorative bowls, turning projects, veneer, musical instruments (electric guitar tops), and jewelry boxes.
Geographic Origin
Temperate regions of North America, primarily the United States and Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $20.00 per board foot depending on the intensity of the spalting figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to 2 years old based on the brightness of the cream wood and the lack of significant yellowing/patina, though the tree itself was likely 40-70 years old.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainable; FSC certification is common for Maple.
Workability
Generally works well but spalting creates 'punky' or soft spots that can tear out during planing or sanding. Sharp tools are essential. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'zone lines' created by fungi competing for resources. It has no characteristic scent. Dust can be a respiratory irritant due to fungal spores.
Finish Recommendations
Clear coats like polyurethane or lacquer are recommended to preserve the color contrast. A sanding sealer is often necessary to even out the absorption in soft spalted areas.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctive black zone lines against a pale, fine-textured closed-grain hardwood are characteristic of spalted maple.