American Sycamore, American Plane Tree, Eastern Sycamore, Buttonwood, Buttonball-tree
Platanus occidentalis
Description
Platanus occidentalis, or American sycamore, is a fast-growing, large tree that thrives in full sun and well-drained, moist soils. The native range of Platanus occidentalis extends from southwestern Maine west to southern Ontario, southern Wisconsin, Iowa, and eastern Nebraska, south to south-central Texas, and east to northwestern Florida and southeastern Georgia. It adapts well to various soil pH levels and offers moderate salt tolerance. Known for its distinctive exfoliating bark and tolerance of light shade and urban pollutants, this tree is ideal for spacious areas. Mix-ups can occur along the nursery value chain between sycamore and the London plane; it may be worth confirming species identity with the nursery prior to shipment.
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Planting Site and Native Range
Planting Site
Naturalization, Parks, Highway, Residential, Wide Median
Management Notes
Management Notes
Surface roots may heave pavement Fruit litter may be an issue
Tree Characteristics
Growth Rate
Fast (60cm or more per year)
Width
15 - 30m
Height
23 - 30m
Soil Quantity
>30 m
Leaves
Evergreen
Insects and Diseases
Insects and Diseases
Much more susceptible to anthracnose compared to the London-Planetree (Platanus x acerfolia). This disease can defoliate a tree and cause branch dieback. Other pests and diseases include aphids, canker, leaf spot, etc.