Likely American sycamore (alternative: silver maple or beech) — Platanus occidentalis

Likely American sycamore (alternative: silver maple or beech)

Platanus occidentalis · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially the Mississippi Valley and southeastern United States.
Hardness
770 lbf Janka; Soft
Durability
Slightly durable; generally poor resistance to decay and weathering, with limited insect resistance.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, fine-textured grain with slight interlock and subtle ribboning; appears flat-sawn, without notable figure.

Color & Appearance

Very pale cream to pinkish-tan heartwood and nearly white sapwood, with low luster and mild color variation; typically ages toward warm tan.

Hardness (Janka)

770 lbf Janka; Soft

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly durable; generally poor resistance to decay and weathering, with limited insect resistance.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $3–$7 per board foot for ordinary kiln-dried stock; figured or exceptionally clear material may cost more.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot be determined reliably from the image; the clean, lightly marked surface appears relatively recent rather than heavily aged.

Common Uses

Furniture, drawer sides, interior trim, boxes, veneer, butcher blocks, and turning.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America, especially the Mississippi Valley and southeastern United States.

Workability

Cuts and sands readily, but interlocked grain can tear during planing; glues and finishes well. Pre-drilling is advisable for fasteners.

Finish Recommendations

Use a sanding sealer followed by clear lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane; a penetrating oil can produce a warmer tone. Test stain first because blotching is possible.

Notable Features

Diffuse-porous, fine texture; often shows distinctive fleck on quarter-sawn surfaces, absent here. The sample’s pale, uniform appearance supports sycamore but is not diagnostic.

Learn more about Likely American sycamore (alternative: silver maple or beech) in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 7, 2026

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Learn about Likely American Sycamore (Alternative: Silver Maple Or Beech) in the encyclopedia

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