American Sycamore
Sycamore, American Planetree (Platanus occidentalis) – The American sycamore is also known as American planetree, Occidental planetree and Buttonwood. It is easily recognized by its mottled exfoliating bark. The bark of the trunk and larger limbs flakes off in great irregular masses leaving the surface mottled, greenish white and gray and brown. Sometimes the smaller limbs look as if whitewashed. This is due to the ridig texture of the bark tissue, which lacks the expansive power common to the bark of other trees, which makes it incapable of stretching to accommodate the growth of the wood underneath.

The sycamore is a massive tree, typically reaching heights of 65 feet with thick, often hollow, trunks. It is often divided near the ground into several secondary trunks, very free from branches. Spreading limbs at the top make an irregular, open head.
 

Summary

Shape: Oval, Rounded or Umbrella
Leaves: Palmate Medium Green turning bronze or gold in fall
Flower / Fruit: Inconspicuous flowers produce small round balls
Growth Rate: Rapid, 36 inches per season
Height: Over 65 feet
Zone: 4 to 9
Light: Full sun
Soil Type: Clay, Loam or Sand
Comments: Likes moist soil and does well along streams

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