(Platanus occidentalis)

Distribution: Throughout Eastern USA.

General Description: The sapwood of sycamore is white to light yellow, while the heartwood is light to dark brown. The wood has a fine close texture with interlocked grain. It is not related in any way to European sycamore but it has the same family classifcation, and similar characteristics. Contrasts well with other species.

Working Properties: The wood machines well, but high speed cutters are needed to prevent chipping. It is resistant to splitting due to the interlocked grain. The wood glues well and stains and polishes, with care, to an excellent finish. It dries fairly rapidly, with a tendency to warp. It has moderate shrinkage and little movement in performance.

Physical Properties: The wood is classified as moderate in weight, hardness, stiffness and shock resistance. It turns well on the lathe and has good bending qualities.

Durability: Rated as non-resistant to heartwood decay. The sapwood is liable to attack by the common furniture beetle, but is permeable to preservative treatment.

Availability: USA - Reasonable availability in a range of specifications and grades in lumber and veneer. Export - Limited, due to sporadic demand.

Main Uses: Furniture, furniture parts (drawer sides), intenal joinery, panelling and mouldings, flooring, kitchen ware, butcher blocks and veneered parts.