Most likely California sycamore; alternatives include London plane or Arizona ash.
Platanus racemosa (likely) · Hardwood (deciduous)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood (deciduous)
- Origin
- Native to California and northern Baja California, especially along streams and lowland valleys.
- Hardness
- About 770 lbf Janka—Soft classification.
- Durability
- Slightly durable; generally vulnerable to decay when exposed outdoors and not notably insect-resistant.
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Grain Pattern
Not reliably visible; sycamore commonly has straight to interlocked grain, coarse texture, and occasional fleck on quarter-sawn surfaces.
Color & Appearance
Freshly cut wood is pale cream to light reddish-brown with little heartwood/sapwood contrast; it darkens modestly toward warm tan with exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
About 770 lbf Janka—Soft classification.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable; generally vulnerable to decay when exposed outdoors and not notably insect-resistant.
Value & Age
Approximately $3–8 per board foot for sound, dry, locally milled lumber; lower for ordinary logs or firewood.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The standing tree appears mature, but the cut logs’ age cannot be determined from this distant image; cutting appears recent.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, veneer, boxes, butcher-block-style surfaces, and turning; logs shown are primarily firewood or milling stock.
Geographic Origin
Native to California and northern Baja California, especially along streams and lowland valleys.
Workability
Generally machines and glues well, though interlocked grain can tear out; coarse fibers and silica may moderately dull tools.
Finish Recommendations
Sand carefully, use a pre-sealer if blotching occurs, then apply oil, shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane.
Notable Features
Often shows attractive mottled or lace-like figure when quarter-sawn; relatively light and dimensionally variable.