Curly Maple — Acer saccharum

Curly Maple

Acer saccharum · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern North America
Hardness
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability
Non-durable

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Grain Pattern

Straight grain with a pronounced transverse curly (tiger) figure perpendicular to the length.

Color & Appearance

Creamy white to light golden-brown sapwood with subtle natural luster and minimal heartwood contrast.

Hardness (Janka)

950 lbf (Medium)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Non-durable

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

15 to 30 dollars per board foot depending on figure grade.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Recently milled kiln-dried lumber, estimated under 5 years since harvesting.

Common Uses

High-end furniture, musical instruments, cabinetry, and specialty woodworking veneer.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America

Workability

Prone to burning during routing and tearout during planing due to wavy grain patterns.

Finish Recommendations

Water-based clear coats or shellac preserve the pale tone; oil finishes enhance chatoyance.

Notable Features

Exhibits strong optical chatoyance and shimmering dimensional depth from the ripple figure.

Learn more about Curly Maple in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified November 1, 2026