Nature Facts About the Sycamore Tree

Overview

Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) is native to central Europe—abundant in Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Germany, and Great Britain. In the U.S., cold-hardy in USDA zones 4–9.

Bark

Smooth. Young: grayish. Mature: nearly white. Flakes off in strips as girth increases.

Leaves

Maple-shaped—sometimes called "Great Maple." Light green, turning golden in autumn. Deciduous—loses all leaves in fall.

Growth

Rapid. 10-year trees reach 25–28 feet. Steady growth thereafter. Full-grown: 50–60 feet in 50–60 years.

Blooms

March/April, shortly after leaf return. Small, green, 6–8 petals, sepals, and stamens each.

Needs

Moist, well-drained soil. Clay can be mixed 1:1 with sand or perlite. Full sun—8+ hours direct sunlight daily.