303.733.1292
800-692-WOOD(9663)
303.733.1292
800-692-WOOD(9663)
Botanical Name
Acer Pseudoplatanus
Other Common Names
Harewood, Sycamore Maple, European Sycamore, Plane.
Region
Europe
The Tree
The tree is reported to grow to heights of more than 100 feet high, with trunk diameters of about 60 inches. Boles are usually straight and clear to heights of 50 to 60 feet.
Appearance
Sapwood color ranges from almost white, to a light golden or reddish brown, while the heartwood is a darker reddish brown. English Sycamore can also be seen with curly or quilted grain patterns.
Properties
The wood is mostly straight-grained, but may occasionally be curly or wavy. Curly or wavy grain can produce beautiful fiddleback or lacy figures. The wood has a high luster with a fine even texture.
Working Properties
Fairly easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though maple has a tendency to burn when being machined with high-speed cutters such as in a router. Turns, glues, and finishes well, though blotches can occur when staining, and a pre-conditioner, gel stain, or toner may be necessary to get an even color.
Uses
Musical instruments, turned objects, and other small specialty wood items.
Availability
Figured pieces such as curly or quilted grain patterns are likely to be much more expensive. Figured material is limited.