Montpellier Maple
Scientific name: Acer monspessulanum
Overview
Montpellier Maple is a small to medium-sized maple species native to the Mediterranean regions of southern Europe. The tree is well adapted to dry climates and rocky soils, making it one of the more drought-tolerant members of the maple family.
The wood is dense, fine textured, and typically pale cream to light brown in color. Although the species is not commonly harvested on a commercial scale, it produces attractive wood suitable for carving, turning, specialty woodworking, and collector specimens.
Within the European hardwood cluster, Montpellier Maple represents a lesser-known member of the maple family and provides an interesting comparison to larger European species such as Sycamore Maple and Norway Maple.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Montpellier Maple
- Scientific Name: Acer monspessulanum
- Region: European Hardwoods (Southern Europe)
- Tree Size: 20–50 ft tall, 1–2 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 42 lbs/ft³ (675 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: Approximately 1,150 lbf
- Color: Creamy white to light brown
- Grain: Straight to slightly irregular
- Texture: Fine and uniform
Identification Characteristics
Montpellier Maple is identified by its light coloration, fine texture, and smooth grain structure. The wood resembles other maple species but is often obtained from smaller trees, resulting in narrower boards and specialty stock.
Finished surfaces are smooth and clean, with a subtle natural luster that highlights the wood’s uniform appearance.
Key identification traits include:
- Creamy white to light brown coloration
- Fine, uniform texture
- Straight to slightly irregular grain
- Smooth finished appearance
- Subtle natural luster
- Small, evenly distributed pores
- Consistent coloration
- Moderately dense feel
Working Properties
Montpellier Maple is generally easy to work and performs similarly to many other maple species. Its fine texture allows for precise machining and excellent surface quality.
- Machines easily
- Works well with hand tools
- Turns cleanly
- Carves well
- Produces smooth finished surfaces
- Sands effectively
- Accepts stains and finishes well
- Good dimensional stability
Safety Note
Wood dust from Montpellier Maple may cause irritation in sensitive individuals. Proper dust collection and respiratory protection are recommended during woodworking operations.
Common Uses
Montpellier Maple common uses including:
- Woodturning
- Carving
- Small furniture components
- Decorative objects
- Craft items
- Tool handles
- Cabinet details
- Specialty woodworking
- Collector wood samples
- Educational collections
Sustainability & Notes
Montpellier Maple is widely distributed throughout the Mediterranean region, where it commonly grows in dry woodlands, hillsides, and rocky environments. The species is valued more for its ecological importance and ornamental qualities than for commercial timber production.
Because trees typically remain relatively small, commercial lumber is uncommon. Most woodworking material originates from landscape removals, storm-damaged trees, or locally sourced specialty wood.
The species is notable for its ability to thrive in environments that would be challenging for many other maple species, making it an important component of Mediterranean ecosystems.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Sycamore Maple – A larger European maple species widely used for furniture, flooring, and musical instruments.
Norway Maple – Another important European maple known for its versatility and broad distribution.
Field Maple – A smaller European maple species valued for carving, turning, and specialty woodworking.
Related Guides
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Wood Collecting & Preservation
Learn how collectors preserve, document, and organize wood samples for long-term study and reference.
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Montpellier Maple samples are valued because they represent one of Europe’s lesser-known maple species. The wood’s fine texture, clean appearance, and connection to Mediterranean ecosystems make it an interesting addition to hardwood collections.
The species is especially appealing to collectors seeking to document the diversity of the Acer genus beyond the more commonly encountered commercial maple species.
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Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of an ongoing effort to document and preserve wood samples from around the world.
Learn more about contributing to the collection:
Resources
Authoritative botanical and forestry references used in compiling information about this species include:
• USDA Forest Service – Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineering Material
https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/products/publications/
• The Wood Database – Global reference for wood identification, physical properties, and woodworking characteristics
https://www.wood-database.com/
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online – Botanical taxonomy and species distribution database
https://powo.science.kew.org/
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List) – Global conservation status assessments
https://www.iucnredlist.org/
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – International trade regulations for protected plant species
https://cites.org/
Additional forestry publications, academic research papers, and regional timber studies may also be referenced where available.
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Availability & Where to Buy
Exotic hardwood availability can vary significantly depending on region, sustainability regulations, and supplier inventory.
As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
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