Sycamore
Platanus occidentalis • Eastern United States
Domestic Hardwood
$
American Sycamore is a unique hardwood with distinctive flaky bark patterns and interlocking grain. Often used for butcher blocks, furniture parts, and decorative applications where its figure can shine.
Janka Hardness
770
Density
34 lbs/ft³
Moisture
10-12%
Fire Rating
Class B
Durability
Class C - 8-10 years
Price Range
$
Appearance
Pale cream to light reddish-brown
Key Characteristics
- •Interlocking grain
- •Distinctive flecking
- •Fine texture
- •Moderate hardness
- •Good dimensional stability
- •Unique figure patterns
Common Applications
- •Butcher blocks
- •Furniture parts
- •Interior trim
- •Boxes and crates
- •Decorative veneers
- •Musical instruments
Maintenance Requirements
Moderate maintenance. Not suitable for outdoor use. Regular care preserves the distinctive appearance.
Advantages
- Affordable hardwood
- Unique grain patterns
- Good for butcher blocks
- Distinctive flecking figure
- Widely available
- Good dimensional stability
Considerations
- Not suitable for outdoor use
- Poor decay resistance
- Interlocking grain difficult to plane
- Can warp during drying
- Not ideal for staining
- May have odor when freshly cut