Ambrosia Maple (Red Maple or Silver Maple variant)
Acer rubrum or Acer saccharinum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, even texture. This sample features the distinct vertical 'gray' streaks and small 'bug holes' characteristic of an Ambrosia infestation, which is a fungal staining cause by the Ambrosia beetle.
Color Description
Creamy white to off-white sapwood with streaks of grayish-blue to brown. The heartwood is usually a darker reddish-brown. Over time, the light areas tend to turn a more golden amber color.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium); categorized as a Soft Maple (though technically a hardwood).
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, turned objects, bowls, musical instruments, crates, and pallets. Often used for decorative focal points due to the unique staining.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Calculated at approximately $5.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on the intensity of the streaking/figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young lumber, likely kiln-dried and surfaced recently (less than 5 years since milling). Minimal oxidation or UV patina is visible.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable and FSC certified.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes and sands well, though the 'bug holes' can sometimes trap sanding dust. It takes glue and finish very well.
Notable Features
Features distinctive oblong stains caused by the Fusarium fungus carried by Ambrosia beetles. The beetles bore holes, creating a 'peppery' look with elongated streaks emanating from the center.
Finish Recommendations
Clear coat such as polyurethane or lacquer is recommended to highlight the fungal staining. Staining is not recommended as it may muddy the natural contrast of the Ambrosia streaks.
Identification Confidence
High; the presence of distinct grayish-blue streaks originating from small bore holes in a light-colored wood is the diagnostic hallmark of Ambrosia Maple.