London Plane (Common Sycamore)
Platanus x acerifolia • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Characteristic lacewood figure with prominent medullary rays (flecks) visible on the quartersawn face; grain is generally straight but can be interlocked.
Color Description
Light to medium reddish-brown heartwood with cream-colored sapwood. High luster with significant chatoyance in ray flecks; tends to darken to a deeper golden brown with age.
Hardness Rating
940 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior trim, flooring, and fine woodturning. Often used as a decorative lace-wood substitute.
Geographic Origin
Widespread throughout Europe and North America (as a hybrid of American Sycamore and Oriental Plane).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot for figured/quartersawn material.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to recently seasoned (less than 1 year); shows bright oxidation and minimal surface patina or wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Generally works well with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during surfacing. Glues and finishes very well.
Notable Features
Distinguished by its dramatic 'flecked' appearance when quartersawn. It is odorless and has low toxicity, though dust can be a mild irritant.
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to clear coats like Danish oil or shellac to pop the figure; polyurethane or lacquer provide good protection for high-wear surfaces.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctive medullary ray flecks and color palette are characteristic of the Platanus genus, specifically quartersawn Plane or Sycamore.