Ambrosia Maple (Pencil Wormhole Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, primarily the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left unprotected outdoors.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with irregular streaks caused by ambrosia beetle infestation, flat-sawn appearance.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light golden-brown background color with striking dark brown, grey, and bluish-black streaks and mineral stains surrounding pinholes. Darkens slightly to an amber tone with age.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left unprotected outdoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on width, length, and intensity of figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged lumber (several years to a few decades since milling), showing typical surface oxidation and checking.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern; widely abundant, not listed on CITES appendices, and generally readily available through sustainable forestry practices.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, custom cabinetry, decorative panels, turning, accent pieces, and specialty millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, primarily the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily when routed or cut if feed rates are too slow. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes clear finishes exceptionally well. Water-based or oil-based polyurethane, lacquer, or a simple hardening oil (like Danish oil) will highlight the contrast between the pale wood and dark mineral streaks.
Notable Features
Features distinct coloration patterns created by ambrosia beetles fungus staining the wood tissue surrounding their entry holes, giving it a highly decorative and unique appearance.
