Ambrosia Maple (Soft Maple)
Acer rubrum or Acer saccharinum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight-grained with distinctive elongated oval streaks or running tracks caused by the Ambrosia beetle. Features slight wavy and irregular patterns around the discoloration streaks.
Color Description
Heartwood is grayish white to light tan, while sapwood is cream-colored. Distinctive brownish to purple-gray streaks are present, often with a small puncture hole at the center of each streak. Luster is medium to high.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; low resistance to rot and fungal decay; susceptible to insect attack (specifically the beetles that create the pattern).
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, turned objects, musical instruments, and decorative interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.50 - $7.50 per board foot depending on the intensity of the figuring and locality.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to slightly seasoned (1-3 years old); lacks significant oxidation or graying associated with long-term exposure.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widespread availability and generally very sustainable; not CITES listed.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues and finishes well. Some care is needed to avoid tearout in areas of irregular grain near the beetle streaks.
Notable Features
Features visual 'staining' caused by the Fusarium solani fungus introduced by the Ambrosia beetle. Includes small 1/16 inch holes. No characteristic odor or toxicity concerns beyond standard sawdust safety.
Finish Recommendations
Clear coats such as lacquer, polyurethane, or shellac are recommended to highlight the contrast of the beetle streaks. Staining is generally avoided as it masks the unique natural coloration.
Identification Confidence
High; the 'running track' streaks and distinct coloration in a pale, closed-grain hardwood are diagnostic of Ambrosia Maple.