Sycamore Trees - Platanus occidentalis

Sycamore Trees (Platanus occidentalis) are native fast growing deciduous broadleaf trees. It is widely recognized for its beautiful ornamental bark, which is light gray and white.

Plant Details - Sycamore Trees

Family: Platanaceae

Light Requirement: Full Sun

Water Needs: Moist

Height: 75 – 100 ft.

Spread: 75 – 100 ft.

Growth Rate: Fast

Wildlife Value: Attracts birds, butterflies

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Sycamore Trees

Sycamore Trees are large and deciduous trees that will make for a great impact on your property.

This tree is excellent when planted as a shade tree, or as a choice specimen in a woodland garden or native garden. It is great planted near rivers due to its high tolerance for wet soil.

Plant in an area that has full sun, and well draining and moist soil. Water this tree regularly until it becomes well established in its new location. You should avoid planting it in a location that has dry soil. This tree can be planted in various soils – loam, clay, or sand are all great soil textures for this tree. It is tolerant of high soil salinity.

This is a low maintenance tree, but it does have significant fall. Avoid planting it in a location where its dropping twigs will create an issue for pedestrians or traffic.

Its leaves are large and green and change to yellow in the fall. Its smooth yet exfoliating bark is incredibly interesting, with gray and white patches.

It will not need routine pruning; however, keep an eye for damaged or diseased branches that will need to be pruned out of the tree.

This tree will attract plenty of wildlife to your landscape. Birds and small mammals will eat its seeds and make shelter in its branches. Cavity dwelling birds like woodpeckers and owls will make homes in its large cavities.

Deer and rabbit resistant.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Sycamore Trees are highly tolerant of being located near Black Walnut.

This tree will attract butterflies. This tree is a host for the white Tussock Moth.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Height at Maturity

Over 25 Feet

Care

Sycamore trees thrive in well-drained soil and need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Trim in late winter to preserve shape and remove dead or diseased branches. Watch for pests like sycamore scale and treat infestations promptly.

Plant Reproduction

Sycamore trees spread through wind-dispersed seeds called samaras.

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Trees

Bare root trees are shipped dormant without soil, making them lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to plant during the cool months of early spring or fall. To begin, soak the roots in a bucket of water for 4–6 hours before planting to rehydrate them. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil and ample space for the tree’s mature size.

Dig a hole twice as wide as the spread of the roots and deep enough to keep the root flare (where the roots begin to spread from the trunk) at or slightly above ground level. Create a small mound of soil in the center of the hole, spread the roots evenly over it, backfill with native soil, and gently tamp down to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.

Keep the soil consistently moist (not soggy) during the first growing season, and apply mulch around the base—avoiding direct contact with the trunk—to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Stake the tree if necessary, and prune only to remove dead or damaged branches. With proper care, your bare root tree will establish quickly and grow strong for years to come.

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