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PlantSnap
Plant Care
American sycamore
(Platanus occidentalis)
Also Known As
American sycamore, Eastern sycamore, Buttonwood
About This Plant
Platanus occidentalis is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 100 feet (30.5 meters) tall with a trunk diameter of up to 10 feet (3 meters). The bark is light brown and exfoliates in irregular patches to reveal a creamy white inner bark. The leaves are large, lobed, and have a rough texture. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and the fruit is a spherical cluster of achenes with a hairy texture.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
60-100 feet (18-30.5 meters) tall and 40-70 feet (12-21 meters) wide
Light Requirements
Full sun to partial shade. The tree can tolerate shade but will grow faster and have a denser canopy in full sun.
Humidity Needs
The American sycamore can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels and is not particularly sensitive to dry or humid air.
Fertilizing Schedule
The American sycamore does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from a balanced fertilizer in the spring if the soil is poor.
Pruning Guidelines
Pruning is not necessary but can be done in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree.
Common Pests and Diseases
The American sycamore is susceptible to anthracnose, a fungal disease that can cause defoliation and twig dieback. It is also prone to canker diseases and powdery mildew.
Indoor Size Range
Not suitable for indoor growth
Watering Schedule
Regular watering is necessary during the first few years of growth, but the tree becomes more drought-tolerant as it matures. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate occasional flooding.
Temperature Range
The tree is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 4-9 and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It prefers cooler temperatures and can suffer from heat stress in hot and dry climates.
Growing Season
The American sycamore grows best in the spring and early summer, but it can continue to grow throughout the summer and fall.
Growing Difficulty Level
The American sycamore is relatively easy to grow and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. However, it can be susceptible to diseases and pests in certain regions.
USDA Hardiness Zones
4-9
Did You Know?
The American sycamore is known for its distinctive mottled bark, which has been compared to camouflage patterns or the skin of a giraffe.
