Ambrosia Maple (Soft Maple variant)
Acer rubrum / Acer saccharinum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight-grained with distinctive oval or elongated fungal stains/streaks and characteristic insect bore holes (Ambrosia beetle galleries).
Color Description
Sapwood is grayish-white to light brown; heartwood is darker reddish-brown. The identifying feature is the gray-to-brown streaking caused by the Ambrosia beetle and surrounding fungal infection.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to rot and wood-boring insects. Heartwood has very little decay resistance.
Common Uses
Furniture, interior trim, novelties, turned objects, cabinetry, and flooring where a rustic or decorative appearance is desired.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on the intensity of the figure and regional supply.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern era; surface shows fresh saw marks and recent mechanical wear, likely salvaged or processed within the last 5-10 years.
Sustainability Status
Abundant and sustainable; not CITES listed and categorized as Least Concern by IUCN. FSC certification widely available.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes well, though the insect holes may require filling depending on the final application.
Notable Features
Features unique gray/brown streaks and 'pinholes' caused by Ambrosia beetles. The fungus associated with the beetle creates the color but does not significantly degrade structural integrity if the wood is kiln-dried.
Finish Recommendations
Clear coats like polyurethane, lacquer, or shellac are recommended to highlight the fungal staining. Danish oil or waxes also enhance the natural luster.
Identification Confidence
High; the presence of specific 'pinhole' beetle galleries accompanied by localized fungal streaking (cigar-shaped stains) is a definitive marker for Ambrosia Maple.