Sweetgum
Scientific Name: | Liquidambar styraciflua |
Location: | southeastern USA |
Dried Weight: | 34lbs/ft3 |
Janka Hardness: | 850lbf |
Crushing Strength: | 6,320lbf /in2 |
Sweet Gum has a wide sapwood that is whitish to light pink or tan color, which is referred to as sweet gum. The narrow heartwood that is gray to reddish brown, is referred to as red gum. The grain is interlocked and it has a very fine uniform texture. The wood gives off a good natural lustre. The end grain is diffuse-porous. Sweet Gum is rated as moderately durable to non-durable in regards to decay. It is easy to work with and turns, glues, stains, and finishes well. It also responds moderately to steam bending.