Spalted Maple (likely Sugar or Red Maple)
Acer saccharum or Acer rubrum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight or slightly wavy grain featuring heavy "spalting" (black zone lines caused by fungal coloration). The sample shows flat-sawn orientation with distinctive irregular map-like patterns.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish-brown base color. The heartwood is typically darker than the sapwood. It features dramatic dark brown to black zone lines. Ages to a more golden or amber hue over time.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf to 1450 lbf (Medium to Hard classification, though spalting may create softer punky spots)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; low resistance to decay. The spalting process itself is a form of early-stage decay that must be halted by drying.
Common Uses
Musical instruments (guitar tops), high-end furniture, bowls (turning), veneers, knife handles, and decorative inlay work.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and Eastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $25.00 per board foot depending on the intensity of the spalting and the stability of the wood.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/Recently harvested; the surface shows contemporary dressing marks and the spalting is crisp, indicating it has not been exposed to significant environmental weathering or heavy oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Fair to good. Requires sharp tools as spalting creates varying densities; the dark lines are harder while white areas can be soft or "punky," leading to potential tearout during planing.
Notable Features
Features distinct black zone lines created by fungi. Dust can be an allergen; use of a respirator is highly recommended during sanding to avoid inhaling fungal spores.
Finish Recommendations
Clear coat such as polyurethane or lacquer is recommended to stabilize the wood and highlight the figure. Stabilizing resins are often used if the wood is punky.
Identification Confidence
High; the black map-like zone lines combined with the light-colored grain and diffuse-porous structure are classic hallmarks of spalted maple.