Soft Maple (Silver Maple)
Acer saccharinum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight or slightly wavy with a fine, even texture. Shows some cathedral pattern in the flat-sawn face and evidence of small knots and bark inclusions.
Color Description
Sapwood is a very light white to off-white; heartwood is grayish brown. The sample shows 'ambrosia' or mineral streaks (dark discolorations) stemming from insect/fungal activity. Tends to turn amber with age.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to slightly durable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack if left in wet conditions.
Common Uses
Furniture components, crates, pallets, musical instruments, turned objects, and paper pulp.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $5.00 per board foot (varies depending on figure and extent of ambrosia/mineral staining).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut/green (0-1 year) based on the bright color, presence of moisture, lack of oxidation, and rough chainsaw-milled edges.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainable.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues and finishes well, though it can be prone to burning if using dull high-speed bits.
Notable Features
Lacks a distinctive scent. Known for 'ambrosia' spotting caused by the ambrosia beetle, which leaves the characteristic dark streaks seen in the knots/pith areas of this sample.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well. Film-forming finishes like polyurethane or lacquer are recommended to protect the soft surface from dings. Use a pre-stain sealer to avoid blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High. The white sapwood, thin reddish bark, characteristic mineral/insect staining, and growth ring structure are classic indicators of Silver Maple.