 In its native range , the sycamore is associated with a biodiverse range of invertebrates and fungi , but these are not always present in areas to which it has been introduced . It is sometimes planted in urban areas for its value as an amenity tree and produces a hard @-@ wearing , creamy @-@ white close @-@ grained timber that is used for making musical instruments , furniture , joinery , wood flooring and kitchen utensils . It also makes good firewood . The rising sap in spring has been used to extract sugar and make alcoholic and non @-@ alcoholic drinks , and honey is made by bees collecting the nectar . 
