Spalted wood is highly coveted among woodworkers due to its distinguished black wavy streaks that give each hardwood piece an undeniable level of detail and visual appeal.

Why choose Spalted Maple for your next Live Edge Slab?

Spalted maple is highly sought after for live edge slabs due to its unique and striking appearance and the wood is easy to work with, allowing for smooth cuts and finishes, making it ideal for various projects. The spalting process creates beautiful, intricate patterns and color variations, adding character and visual interest to each slab, and when you maintain the live edge, it allows the natural contour of the tree to show, enhancing the organic look of the wood and creating a one-of-a-kind piece. It is also relatively lightweight compared to other hardwoods, making it easier to handle and transport. We offer a selection of spalted maple slabs on our website.

What factors contribute to the creation of spaltings distinct appearance?

Spalted wood refers to wood which has been exposed to certain fungi and bacteria over a period of time. This process causes discoloration and produces dark lines or streaks in the grain of the wood.

What species exhibit spalting?

Spalted Maple is a one-of-a-kind wood with a distinctive grain. As well as occurring in Maple, Spalting can be found in other species, including Beech, Birch, and Poplar. It is clear that all wood is subject to decay, and as such, has the potential to spalt. However, Maple remains the most popular and sought-after wood for Spalting, which is a result of its wide, white sapwood, that creates an ideal ‘canvas’ for the fungi to work its magic.

What is the difference between ambrosia and spalting?

As stated before, Spalting is a phenomenon exhibited by certain wood species where, due to fungal colonization, the wood develops unique characteristics and colorations. However, some people sometimes confuse this with ambrosia, which can also cause a beautiful unique look. Ambrosia wood is a type of wood that is created when ambrosia beetles infest a living tree and create a pattern of marbled stains. It is usually identified by its beautiful grain and is sought after for its unique aesthetic qualities, much like spalted woods. In summary, spalting is a type of fungus, while ambrosia is a species of beetle, and the end result of both is a stunning and a one-of-a-kind aesthetic for wood.

Where can you find spalted wood?

Here at Berkshire Products, of course! Berkshire Products is pleased to offer customers a broad range of Spalted Maple and Spalted Beech products. We invite customers to take a look at our website selections found under “Categories” or visit us in-person to experience our products firsthand.