London Plane (Common Sycamore)
Platanus x acerifolia · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Widespread throughout Europe and North America (as a hybrid of American Sycamore and Oriental Plane).
- Hardness
- 940 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Characteristic lacewood figure with prominent medullary rays (flecks) visible on the quartersawn face; grain is generally straight but can be interlocked.
Color & Appearance
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 (Janka)
940 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
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.
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).
Workability
Generally works well with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during surfacing. Glues and finishes very well.
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.
Notable Features
Distinguished by its dramatic 'flecked' appearance when quartersawn. It is odorless and has low toxicity, though dust can be a mild irritant.
