Red Gum (Knotty/Figured Sweetgum)
Liquidambar styraciflua · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, extending from New York down to Florida and west to Texas.
- Hardness
- 850 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable. Low resistance to decay and prone to insect attack outdoors if untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Highly figured, irregular swirled and interlocked grain with pronounced chatoyancy and burl-like or quilted optical effects common in figured Red Gum.
Color & Appearance
Rich reddish-brown to pinkish-tan heartwood with darker streaks and swirls, contrasting with a lighter sapwood margin. Exhibits high natural luster and deep chatoyancy that shifts in the light. Darkens to a deeper reddish-brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
850 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable. Low resistance to decay and prone to insect attack outdoors if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot for highly figured select stock.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 5 to 15 years since milling, based on stable surface oxidation and modern workshop context.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern status on the IUCN Red List. Widely abundant, sustainably harvested, and not CITES-listed.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, decorative veneers, turning, and specialty woodworking projects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, extending from New York down to Florida and west to Texas.
Workability
Tends to warp and twist during drying due to interlocked grain, but works well with both hand and machine tools once dry. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though sharp blades are needed to prevent tearout on figured areas.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oil finishes, shellac, and lacquer exceptionally well. A UV-inhibiting clear coat helps preserve the rich reddish tones from fading.
Notable Features
Famous for its striking multicolored figured grain (Red Gum). Can be prone to movement if not properly dried, but offers exceptional decorative aesthetic value.
