Ambrosia describes a fungal discoloration caused by the wood boring ambrosia beetles. The majority of ambrosia maple is found in the species of soft maple.

Burl is a tree growth in which the grain has grown in a deformed manner. It is commonly found in the form of a rounded outgrowth on a tree trunk or branch that is filled with small knots from dormant buds. Burls yield a very peculiar and highly figured wood sought after in high end furniture.

Curled wood has ripples in the grain pattern that create a 3D effect that appears as if the grain has "curled" along the length of the board. While this can occur in many wood species, it is prevalent in maple.

Spalting is any form of wood coloration caused by fungi. It gives the wood these black streaks in the wood. The unique coloration and patterns of spalted wood are sought after by furniture makers.

Quilting is so named for its resemblance to patchwork patterns on fabric quilts. Very prevalent in soft maples.

While this is not a distinct species of maple, it is considered to be a growth/grain anomaly. It is called birdseye maple because the tiny knots in the grain resemble small bird's eyes. The figure is reportedly caused by unfavorable growing conditions for the tree. Birdseye yields a very peculiar and highly figured wood sought after in high end furniture.