American Sycamore
Platanus occidentalis · Deciduous hardwood
Plant Family
Platanaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Street Tree, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type, no specific named cultivar identified
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4 through 9
About This Tree
Massive shade tree with a broad, irregular, open crown, heavy spreading branches, and distinctive mottled exfoliating bark
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, palmately lobed leaves with 3 to 5 lobes, coarsely toothed margins, light green turning brownish-yellow in fall
Bark Characteristics
Smooth, grayish-brown outer bark that flakes off in irregular pieces to reveal stark white, greenish, or cream inner bark, especially on upper trunk and branches
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and central North America, widely adapted to riparian zones and urban plantings
Growing Season
Spring leaf out and flowering, summer foliage, autumn yellowing and leaf drop, winter dormancy with persistent fruit balls
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun, high moisture requirements when young, moderate drought tolerance once established, thrives in moist soils
Mature Size
75 to 100 feet tall with an equal or greater spread, fast growth rate, long lifespan exceeding 200 years
Special Characteristics
High urban pollution tolerance, excellent shade canopy, distinctive camouflage bark, durable heavy wood historically used for butcher blocks
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nesting sites and cover for large birds and mammals, seeds consumed by finches and small mammals, supports various insect pollinators