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.