Sycamore Tree Characteristics: Appearance, Growth, and Problems

Overview

The sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) is a deciduous hardwood found throughout the U.S., especially in moist, cool soils. Planted along highways and urban areas for shade. Fast-growing; wood is tough, scentless—used for furniture and specialty items.

Appearance

Very large—100+ feet tall, 70-foot canopy spread. Trunk sometimes splits near base. Bark mottled gray, brown, cream. Young trees pyramidal; mature canopy rounded/oval. Fruit: round orbs on long stems. Leaves 4–6 inches wide, green turning yellowish in fall.

Growth

Thrives in rich, moist soil along waterways. Also grows in drought. Full sun; salt and pollution tolerant—good for cities. Shallow roots can disturb sidewalks/pavement.

Problems

Anthracnose thrives in cool, wet conditions—causes premature leaf drop, can kill other plants. Lace bugs defoliate. Bacterial scorch kills in a few seasons—leaves brown and shrivel.