Spalted Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with fine, even texture. This specific sample exhibits spalting, characterized by dark, irregular fungal 'zone lines' that snake through the wood fiber.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish brown; sapwood is a creamy off-white. The piece shows characteristic light tan tones with distinct black lines caused by incipient decay (spalting). It will darken slightly to a golden amber with age and sunlight.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot. The presence of spalting indicates the wood has already begun a controlled decay process.
Common Uses
Musical instruments (mainly guitar tops and necks), fine furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, pool cues, turned bowls, and decorative veneers.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot for high-figured or spalted stock.
Wood Age Estimate
Fresh cut modern lumber; based on the bright color and lack of deep oxidation or patina, the piece is likely less than 2-3 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with hand and machine tools, though high density can lead to burning with high-speed router bits. Spalting creates soft spots that require sharp tools to avoid 'tearout' or 'fuzzy' grain.
Notable Features
Distinguished by 'zone lines' created by fungi. It has no characteristic odor. Dust can be an irritant to the respiratory system, especially with spalted samples containing fungal spores.
Finish Recommendations
Film-building finishes like lacquer or polyurethane are recommended to seal the porous spalted sections. Sanding sealer is highly recommended as the soft spots will absorb finish unevenly.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the creamy white substrate, fine pore structure, and classic black 'zone lines' is diagnostic of spalted maple.