303.733.1292
800-692-WOOD(9663)
303.733.1292
800-692-WOOD(9663)
Botanical Name
Liquidambar Styraciflua
Other Common Names
Delta Redgum, Figured Gum, Hazel, Sapgum, Whitegum
Region
Sweetgum occurs naturally in the southeastern United States.
The Tree
Sweetgum trees grow to heights of 100 feet, with diameters of 3 feet.
Appearance
The heartwood (or redgum) is much more colorful than the sapwood. It ranges in color from pinkish brown to a deep full-bodied red. Streaks of black may also be present. The heartwood frequently has darker streaks of pigment figure called figured redgum. The figure is reported to be especially prominent in flat sawn timber and rotary cut veneer.
Properties
The grain is interlocked, producing an attractive grain, but causing problems in seasoning. The wood is moderately hard, stiff, and heavy.
Working Properties
Sweetgum is above average in turning, boring, and steam bending. It is intermediate in planing, shaping, bending, splitting and holding nails and screws. It requires pretreatment before gluing.
Uses
Boxes, crates, dimension stock, furniture parts and fixtures.
Availablity
Figured red gum from the heartwood, which has a mottled or marbled appearance and a satiny shine, is reported to be highly prized and is usually priced in the valuable range.