CROWN PLANETREE

Also known as: Plane, London Plane

Botanical Name: Platanus acerifolia

Origin: Europe

Description: When logs of Plane are quarter sliced, the resulting veneer is known as Lacewood. The broad rays show up on this quartered material as a decorative fleck figure which may vary quite considerably in size. Veneer with this “snakeskin” figure was commonly seen in railway carriages some years ago. Flat cut logs produce crown veneer which is known simply as Planetree. Less decorative than Lacewood, it is occasionally used on furniture and doors. Also available as Planetree burr and cluster veneer. The individual burr pips are usually tiny and somewhat indistinct, giving the finished surface an almost velvety look.