Spalted Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Highly irregular and wavy grain with prominent spalting (fungal discoloration) creating dark, winding zone lines. Features include burl-like clusters and swirled figure around structural voids.
Color Description
Pale creamy white to light tan background with dark brown to black zone lines. Shows significant color variation due to decay; can develop a yellowish patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1450 lbf (Hard), though fungal decay in spalted areas may create soft pockmarks or "punky" zones.
Durability Rating
Non-durable; low resistance to decay or insects. The spalting process itself is a form of initial decay, making it susceptible to further rot if not sealed.
Common Uses
Turning blanks, decorative bowls, high-end furniture accents, veneers, musical instrument tops, and jewelry boxes.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 to $25.00 per board foot depending on the intensity of the spalting and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Fresh to recently dried (1-3 years old). The bright background and lack of deep oxidation suggest a relatively a modern cut.
Sustainability Status
Generally sustainable; IUCN Red List status of Least Concern. Often harvested from fallen or dead trees where spalting naturally occurs.
Workability
Moderate. While Maple generally planes well, spalted zones can be soft or crumbly, leading to significant tearout. Sharp tools and wood hardeners/stabilizers are often required.
Notable Features
Distinctive black 'ink lines' caused by fungi; can produce allergenic dust when sanded. Lacks a distinct scent but known for its high visual contrast.
Finish Recommendations
Clear film-building finishes like polyurethane or lacquer are best to highlight zone lines and provide structural integrity to softer spalted areas. Stabilizing resins are frequently used.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic black zone lines against a pale, tight-grained diffuse-porous hardwood background are definitive indicators of spalted maple.