American Sycamore
Platanus occidentalis · Deciduous broadleaf hardwood
Plant Family
Platanaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type, no specific notable cultivar visible
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9
About This Tree
Massive shade tree with an open, irregular crown, massive spreading branches, and a rapid growth rate
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, 4 to 10 inches wide, palmately lobed with 3 to 5 lobes, coarsely toothed margins, bright green turning brown in fall
Bark Characteristics
Distinctive exfoliating bark that peels off in large irregular flakes, revealing smooth white, green, and gray inner bark patches
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and central North America
Growing Season
Spring leaf-out in April, flowers in April to May, fruits mature in autumn, enters dormancy in late fall
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun, high moisture requirements, prefers moist alluvial soils, moderate drought tolerance once established
Mature Size
Height of 75 to 100 feet, spread of 75 to 100 feet, fast growth rate, long lifespan exceeding 250 years
Special Characteristics
High urban pollution tolerance, distinctive mottled bark, strong timber used for furniture and crates
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nesting sites and cover for cavity-nesting birds and mammals, seeds consumed by finches and small mammals