About
Platanus occidentalis, the American sycamore, is a large, vigorous, broadly columnar tree to 25 m with flaking brown, grey and cream bark and lime-green, sycamore-like leaves with three or five pointed lobes. Inconspicuous flowers are followed by spherical seed clusters hanging one or two to a stem, green then brown, persisting into winter. A stately and ornamental specimen tree for a large, sunny garden or landscape.
About the genus
Platanus, the plane trees, are vigorous, large, deciduous trees of stately appearance with maple-like, lobed foliage, flaking, patterned bark and spherical, bristly fruiting balls hanging in clusters. Among the most ornamental and pollution-tolerant of all large trees.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, hedging, specimen planting.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in well-drained soil in sun or part shade.
PruningPrune after flowering or late winter.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant.