Sycamore Maple (European Maple)
Acer pseudoplatanus • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture. Occasionally exhibits wavy or curly figure (fiddleback) in older logs. The end grain shows diffuse-porous structure with distinct growth rings.
Color Description
Heartwood and sapwood are typically a uniform creamy white to light tan. The wood is known for its high luster and lack of distinct heartwood. It tends to turn a golden-yellow brown with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,050 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; perishable. Low resistance to decay and insect attack, especially if left in contact with the ground outdoors.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, musical instruments (especially violin backs), woodturning, kitchen utensils (as it is tasteless and odorless), and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Central and Southern Europe, and Southwest Asia. Widely naturalized in the UK and parts of North America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $7.00 per board foot for standard grade; significantly higher for figured logs used in instrument making.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut (0-1 weeks). The bark remains intact, the end grain is light and moist, and the leaves on the ground are still partially green/brown and not fully decomposed.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Generally considered abundant and highly sustainable.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It turns, glues, and finishes well. Care must be taken to avoid burn marks when using high-speed routers or saws due to high sugar content.
Notable Features
Neutral scent and taste; very high natural luster. It is highly susceptible to spalting if left in log form in damp conditions, which can increase its aesthetic value for turners.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear, non-yellowing finishes like water-based polyurethanes or thin coats of shellac to preserve the white color. Responds excellently to oils and waxes for a natural feel.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of smooth grey bark with occasional plate-like peeling, the pale creamy end grain of those fresh cuts, and the nearby maple-shaped leaves on the lawn confirm Acer pseudoplatanus.