Curly Maple (Tiger Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 950 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain featuring a prominent wavy or 'curly' figure running perpendicular to the grain direction
Color & Appearance
Light golden-tan to creamy white heartwood and sapwood with high chatoyancy, rich amber patina from age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and decay when exposed to moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00 per board foot for highly figured stock
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 30-50 years old based on surface wear and deep amber oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern status, widely abundant, not listed on CITES appendices, readily available from sustainable domestic sources
Common Uses
Fine furniture, musical instruments like violin backs and electric guitar tops, cabinetry, architectural millwork, turning
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Can be challenging due to the wavy grain which causes severe tearout during planing; requires sharp blades, fine cutting angles, and careful sanding
Finish Recommendations
Dye followed by shellac or oil finishes to pop the curl, protected by a topcoat of lacquer or polyurethane
Notable Features
Exhibits stunning three-dimensional chatoyancy (tiger stripe effect) that shifts depending on the viewing angle and light
