PLATANUS OCCIDENTALIS / AMERICAN SYCAMORE

PLATANUS OCCIDENTALIS / AMERICAN SYCAMORE

A Majestic Native Tree with Striking Bark and Broad Canopy

Platanus occidentalis, commonly known as American Sycamore, is a native deciduous tree admired for its massive size, broad spreading canopy, and distinctive exfoliating bark that peels to reveal creamy white and brown patches. Thriving in full sun with moist, well-drained soils, American Sycamore provides shade, architectural interest, and ecological value to parks, riparian areas, and large landscapes.

Why Choose American Sycamore?

Iconic Bark & Form: Exfoliating bark and broad canopy provide year-round interest.
Wildlife Friendly: Seeds and shelter support birds, insects, and small mammals.
Fast-Growing Shade Tree: Offers rapid canopy cover in large spaces.
Low Maintenance: Hardy, long-lived, and resilient once established.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Large, lobed green leaves turning yellow-brown in fall.
Fruit Color: Round, spiky seed balls in late summer to fall.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 75–100 feet tall and 50–75 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 4–9.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun.
Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soils; tolerates clay, loam, and wet sites.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 75–100 feet tall, 50–75 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright to spreading deciduous tree with broad canopy.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–9.
Flowering/Fruiting: Produces inconspicuous flowers in spring; spiky seed balls in late summer.
Fall Interest: Yellow-brown foliage and distinctive bark provide seasonal appeal.

Ideal Uses:

Shade & Specimen Trees: Perfect for large yards, parks, and streetscapes.
Riparian & Naturalized Landscapes: Ideal for planting along rivers, streams, and wet sites.
Wildlife Gardens: Provides habitat and food for birds and small mammals.
Low-Maintenance Large-Scale Plantings: Hardy and resilient for long-term landscapes.

American Sycamore is a majestic and ecologically valuable native tree. Its broad canopy, exfoliating bark, and wildlife benefits make it an excellent choice for shade, riparian areas, and large naturalized landscapes.