Most likely spalted silver maple; alternatives include spalted box elder or cottonwood.
Acer saccharinum (likely); Acer negundo or Populus deltoides are alternatives. · Hardwood; locally figured/spalted material.
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood; locally figured/spalted material.
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Mississippi Valley, and southeastern Canada/United States.
- Hardness
- Janka approximately 750 lbf — Soft (silver maple; spalted areas may be weaker).
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay and insects, especially where spalting, bark, or voids remain.
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Grain Pattern
Irregular, wavy grain with pronounced bark inclusion, voids, and dark spalting lines; likely live-edge slab or crotch-area wood.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to gray-tan wood with strong gray-brown streaking and dark zone lines. Spalting and oxidation create high contrast; exposed pale areas may amber slightly with age.
Hardness (Janka)
Janka approximately 750 lbf — Soft (silver maple; spalted areas may be weaker).
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay and insects, especially where spalting, bark, or voids remain.
Value & Age
Approximately $10–$35 per board foot for attractive, stabilized figured slabs; less for cracked or punky material.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The tree’s age cannot be determined from the photograph; the sample shows weathering and active or historical spalting, not necessarily old wood.
Common Uses
Decorative slabs, turned objects, small furniture, epoxy-inlaid panels, boxes, veneer, and craftwork; unsuitable for demanding exterior applications.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Great Lakes, Mississippi Valley, and southeastern Canada/United States.
Workability
Cuts and sands easily, but punky spalting, bark inclusions, tearout, and voids complicate machining. Stabilization, sharp tools, and slow feed rates are helpful.
Finish Recommendations
Dry thoroughly, remove loose fibers, and consider resin stabilization or epoxy filling; use dewaxed shellac, lacquer, oil, or polyurethane after sealing end grain.
Notable Features
Strong natural figure from spalting and irregular grain, with dramatic light-dark contrast and possible bark inclusions.