Ambrosia Maple (or Spalted Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Wavy and irregular figure with prominent ambrosia streaks and spalted fungal coloration lines running parallel to the grain.
Color & Appearance
Light creamy tan to reddish-brown background color with striking grayish-blue, brown, and black streaks caused by ambrosia beetles and fungal activity, displaying moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated outdoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00+ per board foot depending on width, thickness, and uniqueness of the figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated recently milled and air-dried or kiln-dried slab, approximately 1 to 5 years old based on clean cut marks and minimal surface patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Species is abundant and of least concern on the IUCN Red List, widely available and sustainably harvested.
Common Uses
High-end custom furniture, live-edge dining tables, cabinetry, decorative veneers, turning, and specialty woodworking.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though figured and wavy sections can cause tearout requiring sharp blades and careful planing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes finishes exceptionally well; clear polyurethane, conversion varnish, or hardening oils like Odies Oil or Rubio Monocoat enhance the chatoyance and contrast of the streaks.
Notable Features
Distinctive streak patterns caused by the ambrosia beetle (Tryptodendron lineatum) introducing fungus as it bores, creating unique coloration without compromising structural integrity significantly.
