Sycamore (American Sycamore)
Platanus occidentalis · Hardwood
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America.
- Hardness
- 770 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Interlocked and irregular grain with prominent, wide rays producing a striking lacewood or fleck pattern when quarter-sawn.
Color & Appearance
Light brown to reddish-brown heartwood with whitish to pale yellow-yellowish sapwood. The wood has a moderate natural luster and darkens slightly to a golden amber over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
770 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Age
3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard domestic lumber.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut or recently turned green wood log, estimated to be under 1 year since harvesting.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, furniture components, butcher blocks, crates, veneer, turned items, and musical instrument parts.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the interlocked grain can sometimes cause tearout during planing. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, lacquers, and polyurethanes very well. A sanding sealer may be used to achieve a uniform finish across the contrasting ray tissues.
Notable Features
Distinguished by extremely broad medullary rays which create a unique speckled or mosaic-like figure on quartered surfaces. The bark is also highly distinctive with a mottled, camouflage-like appearance.
