Spalted Birch
Betula papyrifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northern North America, including Canada and the northern United States.
- Hardness
- 910 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to rot, decay, and insect attack, especially due to the existing spalted condition.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with prominent spalted zone and dark coloration lines caused by fungal decay zones.
Color & Appearance
Light cream to yellowish-white background with contrasting dark brown and black fungal reaction lines (spalting) running longitudinally.
Hardness (Janka)
910 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to rot, decay, and insect attack, especially due to the existing spalted condition.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on the intensity of the spalted figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated kiln-dried lumber, approximately 5 to 15 years since harvesting, showing mild seasoning checks.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN red list.
Common Uses
Decorative furniture, turning, custom cabinetry, veneer, and specialty woodworking projects.
Geographic Origin
Northern North America, including Canada and the northern United States.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though spalted areas can be punky and soft, requiring careful sanding and stabilization.
Finish Recommendations
Wipe-on poly, lacquer, or hardening oil finishes work best to enhance the contrast of the spalted grain while stabilizing softer areas.
Notable Features
Distinctive fungal zone lines creating dramatic patterns (spalting), though the punky sections may require hardening treatments like epoxy or CA glue.
