American Sweetgum
Liquidambar styraciflua · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Southeastern and Eastern United States, extending into Mexico and Central America.
- Hardness
- 850 lbf (Soft to Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture or ground contact.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a fine, uniform texture. Often features a distinctive figured pattern with dark contrasting streaks when cut from the heartwood (sometimes marketed as satin walnut or red gum).
Color & Appearance
Sapwood is a pale whitish color, sometimes with pinkish hues. Heartwood ranges from a rich reddish-brown to dark brown, frequently streaked with black or purple. Exhibits moderate natural luster and darkens to a deeper patina over time with exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
850 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture or ground contact.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot (standard domestic hardwood pricing, higher for highly figured heartwood or 'red gum' stock).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 50 to 100 years old, based on the classic mid-to-late 20th-century furniture style, wear patterns, and rich oxidized patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not considered threatened by the IUCN. Readily available and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, veneer, plywood, interior millwork, and turned items like traditional chairs.
Geographic Origin
Southeastern and Eastern United States, extending into Mexico and Central America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the interlocked grain can sometimes cause tearout during planing. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and dyes uniformly due to its fine texture. Traditional varnish, lacquer, shellac, or penetrating oils enhance the rich reddish-brown tones and natural luster.
Notable Features
Produces a fragrant, amber-colored resin (storax) historically used in perfumes and pharmaceuticals. Prone to warping and twisting during drying if not carefully handled.
