Name |
Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) |
Type |
Hardwood. |
Other Names |
Also known as American sycamore, American plane tree, buttonball, buttonwood, and water beech. |
Sources |
Grows in eastern half of United States. |
Appearance |
Interlocked, irregular grain with a fine, even texture. Reddish brown heartwood and lighter colored sapwood. |
Physical Props |
Fairly light in weight, moderately hard, stiff, and strong, tough and shock resistant. Poor decay resistance and steam bending. |
Working Props |
Can be difficult to work due to interlocked fibers. Splits fairly easily. Turns easily and finishes smoothly. Does not impart odor or flavor. Glues, screws, nails, and finishes satisfactorily. |
Uses |
Favored for butcher blocks. Also used for interior furniture (quarter-sawn lumber mainly), boxes (primarily food containers), crates, slack cooperage, flooring, pallets, handles, and veneer. |