Sugar Maple (Curly/Tiger Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Wavy or curly figure running perpendicular to the grain, creating a distinct tiger stripe effect on flat-sawn or quarter-sawn surfaces.
Color & Appearance
Light golden brown to medium amber with visible chatoyance in the curly figure; ages to a deeper amber patina over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 8.00 to 15.00 USD per board foot depending on the intensity of the curl figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 30 to 60 years old based on oxidation patina and surface wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely abundant, and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, musical instruments (violin backs, guitar tops), cabinetry, veneer, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Moderate to difficult due to the wavy grain which can cause tearout during planing; sands and turns well.
Finish Recommendations
Danish oil, shellac, or a clear lacquer works exceptionally well to pop the curly figure and enhance chatoyance.
Notable Features
Exhibits strong optical chatoyance (three-dimensional rippling effect under light due to undulating wood fibers).
