Spalted Maple
Acer saccharum (Sugar) or Acer saccharinum (Silver) • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Irregular and wavy with distinct spalting (fungal discoloration) creating dark, winding zone lines; fine and even texture within the non-decayed areas.
Color Description
Pale creamy white to light tan base; characteristically marked with dark brown or black 'pencil lines' and grayish patches caused by fungal activity; low luster with a matte appearance in its raw state.
Hardness Rating
700 to 1450 lbf (Soft to Hard depending on exact species and rot stage)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack, as the spalting process itself is an early stage of rot.
Common Uses
Turning (bowls and vessels), decorative veneer, furniture accents, jewelry boxes, and specialty craft items.
Geographic Origin
Northeast and Midwest United States, and Eastern Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on figure intensity.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be recently harvested/processed driftwood or green wood with fresh gouge marks; likely under 2 years since fallen.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; generally abundant and sustainable.
Workability
Fair to poor workability; soft punky areas adjacent to hard healthy wood can lead to uneven sanding and teaout. Requires sharp tools and often stabilizer/hardener.
Notable Features
Distinctive black zone lines produced by fungi; no characteristic scent; sawdust can be an allergen or respiratory irritant due to fungal spores.
Finish Recommendations
Film-building finishes like clear lacquer or polyurethane are recommended to seal the porous spalted areas; sanding sealer or wood stabilizer is often necessary.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the creamy white base with characteristic black fungal zone lines is a definitive indicator of spalted maple.