Platanus occidentalis - American Sycamore

Platanus occidentalis - American Sycamore


Full SunBird FriendlyDeer ResistantRain GardenFall Color 

DESCRIPTION

American Sycamore
Platanus occidentalis

A stately presence with a distinct pyramidal form, this massive growing tree features huge, trident-shaped foliage and a platy, patchy bark that shows off in winter with brown, orange, green, and white colors. A strong seed producer that supports native songbirds with food and nesting.

BENEFITS
  • Tolerant of wet soil
  • Perfect for nesting native birds
  • A massive presence in the native landscape
  • Outstanding foliage and winter bark color show
  • A strong seed producer for native songbirds
NATIVE INFO

Native Range

Map Credit: The Biota of North America 
Map Key: Green (native), Teal (native, adventive), Blue (present), Yellow (present & rare), Red (extinct)

INTERESTING FACTS

The American Sycamore trunk can reach massive diameters - more than any other native hardwood! Typically the trunk reaches diameters between 3-8', but some trees have been reported to reach a diameter of more than 15'.  

GROWING TIPS

Grows well in medium to wet, humus-rich, well-drained soils in full sun or light shade. 

Mature Size: 75-90' T x 75-90' W

Hardiness Zone: 4-8

Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Light Shade

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    American Beauties Offer Solution Based Plant Collections to Help you Choose

    Quick Tips for Choosing Plants:

    • Planting a variety of native trees, shrubs, perennials and vines increases biodiversity and gives wildlife a source for food, cover and nesting
    • Choose a mixture of deciduous and evergreen trees so birds and other wildlife will always be able to find shelter
    • Plant trees and large shrubs where they will block winter winds from the house and shade it in summer, that will save energy and lower your carbon footprint
    • Try your best to buy plants that were grown locally, your independent garden center will be your best bet
    • Think about ultimate height and width of the plant you choose, make sure it will fit the space you have for it when it's reached maturity
    • Plant nectar plants in groups, to attract butterflies and other beneficial insects more easily
    • Ask for help if you need it. Most garden centers either have a landscape designer on staff or they can give you a reference of a designer that is adept at native plant wildlife gardening. There will be upfront costs but they are small when compared to having to redo a landscape that wasn't what you really wanted

    Our Plant Tags Hold the Secrets to Success

    Choosing the right plants for your garden can seem like a daunting task but we’re here to help. Our horticulturists have spent a considerable amount of time researching and writing our beautiful, American Beauties plant tags to help you be successful. First of all, when you see an American Beauties branded pot at your garden center you can be confident that the plant is native to your area and a responsible choice. 

    When you look at our tag you’ll find information about the plants natural habitat. That will give you a clue to how it will work in your backyard. For instance if the plant is naturally founded and moist, shade and you have full sun, it’s not the plant for you. The “Features” section gives you an overview or plant description so you’ll know what to expect. While the “Benefits” section talks about the plants strong suits and how the plant will benefit wildlife. 

    A Special Note About Exposure

    Full sun: Prefers six or more hours of direct sunshine a day
    Partial shade: Thrives in three to six hours of daily sunshine
    Shade: Generally does well with less than three hours of sun per day. Having said that even shade loving plants will struggle in extremely deep shade.

    DOWNLOADABLE RESOURCES

    Best Plants for Bees - Double sided printout for download

    Best Plants for Butterflies - Double sided printout for download

    Best Plants for Birds - Double sided printout for download