London Plane
Platanus x acerifolia · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Widespread throughout Europe and North America (hybridized species cultivated in urban areas globally).
- Hardness
- 940 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if used outdoors or in high-moisture environments.
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Grain Pattern
Quartersawn with prominent medullary rays creating a dense lacewood or leopard-like figure; grain is generally straight to slightly interlocked with a fine, even texture.
Color & Appearance
Light to medium reddish-brown heartwood with cream to light tan sapwood. Distinguishable by its darker, reddish-brown ray flecks. Tends to darken and become more golden-brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
940 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if used outdoors or in high-moisture environments.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 - $15.00 per board foot depending on the intensity of the quartersawn ray fleck figure.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The finished object appears relatively modern (5-15 years), though the growth rings visible in the grain suggest the wood came from a tree at least 40-50 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable as a common urban landscape tree.
Common Uses
Veneer, fine furniture, cabinetmaking, woodturning (bowls and vases), interior trim, and decorative inlay.
Geographic Origin
Widespread throughout Europe and North America (hybridized species cultivated in urban areas globally).
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though quartersawn surfaces can be prone to tearout during planing. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Clear oils (tung or linseed) or shellac are recommended to highlight the depth of the ray flecks and chatoyance. A high-gloss lacquer or polyurethane also enhances the figure.
Notable Features
Famous for its conspicuous medullary rays that produce a distinctive "lacewood" appearance when quartersawn. Lacks a characteristic odor.
