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Ambrosia Maple
Ambrosia Maple is a visually stunning hardwood known for its unique, one-of-a-kind character. Caused by the activity of the ambrosia beetle, this maple features distinctive gray, brown, and sometimes blue streaks running through the pale sapwood, creating a dramatic and organic appearance.
Though not a separate species, Ambrosia Maple refers to any soft maple (typically Acer rubrum or Acer saccharum) that has been naturally stained by beetle activity. The result is decorative, wormy figure that woodworkers, designers, and furniture makers value for its rustic elegance and artistic flair.
Length: 6′-14′
Thickness: 4/4 $8/Bd ft
- Common Name(s): Ambrosia Maple
- Scientific Name: Acer spp.
- Distribution: Northeastern North America
- Tree Size: 80-115 ft (25-35 m) tall, 2-3 ft (0.6-1.0 m) trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 44.0 lbs/ft³ (705 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,450 lbf (6,450 N)
- Crushing Strength: 7,830 lbf/in² (54.0 MPa)
Heartwood: Light to medium brown, sometimes with a reddish hue.
Sapwood: Pale to nearly white, often with darker streaks caused by the ambrosia beetle.
Grain: Generally straight but can also be curly or wavy.
Texture: Fine, even texture with moderate natural luster.
Rated as non-durable to perishable in regard to decay resistance. Susceptible to insect attack.
Fairly easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though somewhat difficult compared to other maples due to the presence of ambrosia beetle marks. Turns, glues, and finishes well, though it can produce blotchy results when staining; using a pre-conditioner, gel stain, or toner may be necessary to get an even color.
- Furniture
- Veneer
- Musical instruments
- Cutting boards
- Specialty wood items
- Decorative pieces
Ambrosia Maple is highly prized for its unique and decorative appearance, caused by the ambrosia beetle’s tracks in the wood. The beetle’s activity results in distinctive discoloration and streaks, which give each piece a one-of-a-kind appearance.
Note: Ambrosia Maple is not a distinct species but rather a description of any type of maple that has been infested by the ambrosia beetle, resulting in its characteristic markings.