About

Platanus wrightii, the Arizona sycamore, is a large, spreading, deciduous tree from Arizona and New Mexico producing deeply lobed, maple-like leaves and the characteristic flaking, patterned bark and spherical fruiting balls of the genus. A rewarding and ornamental tree for a large, well-drained, sunny garden.

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.

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectNorth-facing, South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeTrees
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesMediterranean climate plants
Native toS Europe, SW Asia

Care notes

CultivationEasy to grow in moist, humus-rich, fertile soils but avoid planting in vacinity of buildings due to vigorous root system
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate from hardwood cuttings in winter or suckers in autumn or late winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to lace bugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to plane anthracnose and honey fungus