Promoting the Use of Native Plant Species in the Home Landscape

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American Plane Tree, Sycamore

Plant Leaf

Full Plant

Plant Berry/Flower

Latin Name: Plantanus occidentalis

Flower Description:

Sycamores flower in May with the leaves. Dense flower heads are dark red (male) and light green tinged with red (female) and are wind pollinated. Seeds form into small, brown burr-like balls and hang on slender stems, 3-6 inches long and persist through winter.

FamilyPlane-tree
Season BloomMay
HabitatOne of our largest hardwoods, Sycamores are easily recognized by their patchy bark, maple-like leaves, and spiny seed balls. It is fast-growing and long-lived. It is at risk from Anthracnose fungi which can weaken the tree. A properly-labeled fungicide can be recommended to combat anthracnose. They have massive trunks and huge crooked branches. Attracts birds.
Cycle
Height75-100'
Leaf DescriptionLeaves are large, palmate, and broad. Four to 9' long with 3-5 lobes similar to a maple leaf. Lobes are toothed. Leaves are a yellowish-green and turn brown in fall.
Soil Type Wet
Light Source All Types
LocationWoodland