Spalted Maple
Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple) or Acer rubrum (Red Maple) • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Primarily straight to wavy with a fine, even texture. The sample displays definitive spalting (fungal zone lines) creating irregular dark, winding boundaries and marbling.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood and sapwood. The surface shows black or dark brown zone lines from spalting. Tends to yellow slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
950 - 1,450 lbf (Medium to Hard, though spalting can create softer 'punky' areas)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to rot and insect attack if not dried and finished properly. The spalting itself is a stage of decay.
Common Uses
Furniture, bowl turning, musical instrument tops (electric guitars), veneer, decorative boxes, and specialty craft items.
Geographic Origin
Northeast and Midwest United States and Southeastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $20.00 per board foot depending on the intensity of the spalting and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
The raw, planed surface and fresh fungal lines suggest a recent milling of a dead or downed log, likely aged 1-5 years post-harvest/fall.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable, often salvaged from fallen timber.
Workability
Generally works well, but 'punky' areas caused by spalting can lead to tearout. Requires sharp tools and sometimes stabilizers/hardeners for soft spots.
Notable Features
Features distinct dark 'zone lines' caused by competing fungi. Dust can be a respiratory irritant due to fungal spores; masks are highly recommended.
Finish Recommendations
Film-building finishes like clear lacquer or polyurethane are recommended to seal the porous spalted areas. Penetrating oils can highlight figure but may soak unevenly.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic black zone lines and fine-pored cream-colored background are hallmarks of spalted maple.