Common Names: American Sycamore
Scientific Name: Platanus occidentalis
 
Size: 3 Gallon
 
Tree Characteristics
Deciduous: American Sycamore is a deciduous tree, shedding its leaves in the fall.
Size: Typically grows to a height of 75-100 ft., with some specimens reaching up to 130 ft.
Leaves: The leaves are large, broad, and palmately lobed with a distinctive shape. They are bright green and turn yellow to brown in the fall.
Bark: The bark is notable for its mottled appearance, peeling off in large, irregular patches to reveal a whitish or grayish underlayer.
Flowers: Produces small, inconspicuous flowers in dense, spherical clusters that appear in early spring.
Fruit: Bears round, spiky seed balls that mature in the fall and persist through winter.
Growth: fast, 2+ ft/year (up to 6 ft/year)
Life: 200-250 years, with some individuals reaching 600.
 
Growing Conditions
Water Use: Medium to High
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Soil Moisture: Moist to Well-drained
 
Ecological Benefits
American Sycamore plays a vital role in Maryland’s ecosystems by providing habitat and food for various wildlife. Its large leaves offer cover for birds and insects, while its seeds serve as a food source for small mammals and birds. The tree’s expansive canopy contributes to the shading of water bodies, helping to regulate temperatures and reduce erosion. As a native species, the American Sycamore supports biodiversity and ecological balance in Maryland’s natural landscapes.