Maple (Birdseye)

Common Name(s)

Birdseye Maple

Scientific Name

Acer saccharum

Tree Distribution

Northeastern North America

Tree Size

80-115 ft. tall, 2-3 ft. trunk diameter

Janka Hardness

1450 lbf

Appearance

Birdseye Maple is not technically a distinct species of Maple, but rather, it’s a figure that’s occasionally found in Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple) trees. It’s named “birdseye” because the figure resembles small bird’s eyes.

The figure is reportedly caused by unfavorable growing conditions for the tree. The Sugar Maple attempts to start numerous new buds to get more sunlight, but with poor growing conditions the new shoots are aborted, and afterward a number of tiny knots remain. Birdseye Maple is frequently sold in veneer form, but solid lumber is available as well. Being tiny knots, the birdseye figure is most noticeable and pronounced on flat-sawn pieces of lumber.

Grain / Texture

Grain is generally straight, but may be wavy. Has a fine, even texture.

Pricing / Availability

Regular Hard Maple should be moderately priced, though slightly more expensive than Soft Maple. Also, figured pieces such as birdseye, curl, or quilt are likely to be much more expensive.

- Information cited from Wood-Database.com