Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture. High-quality smooth figure shown in this turned live-edge bowl with characteristic subtle growth rings and tight end-grain orientation near the base.
Color Description
Sapwood is a creamy off-white to pale yellow; heartwood (visible in the knot/branch core) is a darker reddish-brown. This wood tends to golden slightly with UV exposure and aging.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack if left in moisture or ground contact.
Common Uses
Turned bowls, flooring, furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments (piano blocks, violin backs), butcher blocks, and pool cues.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness; higher for figured stock.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly turned or relatively modern (1-5 years post-processing); the wood shows no significant UV graying or deep oxidation and the live edge bark/cambium remains relatively intact.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and FSC certified sources are common.
Workability
Excellent for turning and machining. High density allows for a very smooth finish off the tool, though it is prone to burning if tools are dull or feed rates are too slow. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Lacks a distinctive scent. Known for its high sugar content in sap. Can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Extremely high abrasion resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Wipe-on polyurethanes, mineral oil, or beeswax/carnauba blends are recommended for turned bowls to maintain the light color. If for food use, use a food-safe drying oil.
Identification Confidence
High. The creamy color, fine pore structure, characteristic branch-knot appearance, and common usage in live-edge bowl turning are highly diagnostic for Acer saccharum.