Sycamore Seedlings for Sale | Platanus occidentalis Tree
Have you ever been on a walk outside and come across an absolutely gigantic, maple-shaped leaf? That’s likely from the American Sycamore, a majestic tree known for its large, distinctive leaves.
These Sycamore Seedlings will eventually grow into the impressive trees that produce those remarkable leaves. When grown from a young sapling, this tree will quickly sprout up and gain the royal height it is known for. One of the most popular attributes of this tree is its unique, mottled bark that is truly artwork on its own.
Plant Details of Sycamore Seedlings (Platanus occidentalis)
Family: Platanaceae
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Water Needs: Moderate - High
Height: 75-100 ft.
Spread: 50-70 ft.
Growth Rate: Fast
Bloom Time: Spring
Flower Color: Inconspicuous yellow and green
Wildlife Value: Provides food & shelter for small creatures
This tree prefers full sun alongside well-drained soil. When grown as a seedling, it has a higher need for regular watering. The flowers, known as panicles, form dense and subtly colored clusters. This tree can be planted in areas with higher moisture, such as along rivers and streams.
Once established, the tree can even tolerate the opposite, being able to handle some levels of drought. Over time, the bark begins to peel and is a natural function of this tree’s texture. Similarly, upon maturity, the bark forms natural cavities that not only serve as ornamental appeal, but also a home for various birds.
Landscape Uses and Maintenance for Sycamore Seedlings
Due to the sprawling size of both the canopy and its root system, it is important to plant Sycamore Seedlings somewhere away from buildings or road structures. The large size provides many landscape benefits as a source of shade and as a windbreaker. The large root system also serves as erosion control in a landscape with wet soils. Because the bark is on the tender side, it is a good idea to use fencing around young saplings to protect against antler damage from deer.
Noteworthy Characteristics of Platanus occidentalis Tree
Sycamore Seedlings will quickly develop a very interesting bark that is often regarded as ‘camouflage-like’, as it has a mottled color of white, green, and brown. The palmate leaves are iconic and known for their distinctly large size (up to 9 inches wide!) with up to 5 lobes.
