Liquidamber styraciflua
Other Names: Redgum, Sapgum, Sweetgum
DISTRIBUTION
The gums are an important part of the Eastern hardwood forests, and are found throughout the Southeastern U.S.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The sapwood tends to be wide and is white to light pink, while the heartwood is reddish brown, often with darker streaks. The wood has irregular grain, usually interlocked, which produces an attractive figure. It has a fine uniform texture.
WORKING PROPERTIES
The wood is easy to work, with both hand and machine tools. It nails, screws and glues well, takes stain easily and can be sanded to an excellent finish. It dries rapidly with a strong tendency to warp and twist. It has a high shrinkage, and is suseptible to movement in performance.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
American gum is moderately hard, stiff and heavy and has a low steam-bending classification.
AVAILABILITY
Readily available, often separated for color and sold as sapgum (sapwood) and redgum (heartwood).
MAIN USES
Cabinet making, furniture parts, doors, millwork, strips and mouldings, turnings and rail ties. Good substitute for walnut when stained.
RELATIVE ABUNDANCE
Together, aspen, basswood, cottonwood, elm, gum, hackberry, sassafras, sycamore and willow represent 12.5 percent of commercially available U.S. hardwoods.
