Birdseye Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable to Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/weather.
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Grain Pattern
Features small, circular, or elliptical figures resembling eyes, caused by a growth disturbance in the cambium; the main grain is usually straight but can be curly or wavy around the eyes.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is a light to medium reddish brown, while the sapwood is cream-colored to off-white. It has a high natural luster and develops a golden patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable to Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/weather.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 to $45.00 per board foot depending on figure density and grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern (5-10 years) based on light oxidation and lack of significant wear or historic tool marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, musical instruments (guitar necks), specialty flooring, veneers, cabinetry, and custom tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
Workability
Can be difficult due to the irregular grain of the birdseye figure, which often leads to tearout during planing. High-speed steel tools must be sharp. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes or clear lacquers are recommended to enhance the chatoyance and depth of the birdseye figure. Gel stains avoid blotchiness.
Notable Features
Prized for its unique aesthetics; contains no characteristic odor. The birdseye figure is a rare genetic or environmental anomaly rather than a separate species.
Notes
Rare wood
