Product Overview
Cannot Ship To:AK,HI
Please Read Our Store Policies HERE Before You Order!!
Introduction:
The American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) is a fast-growing, large shade tree that is a standout in any landscape due to its impressive size and unique peeling bark. It thrives in USDA Zones 4-9 and can quickly grow to heights of up to 70 feet, with a wide, spreading canopy. This tree is perfect for providing shade in larger yards, parks, and other expansive areas. Its large, lobed leaves turn golden in the fall, and the tree's exfoliating bark provides year-round visual interest.
Plant Summary:
- Size: Grows to a height of 70-100 feet with a spread of 60-80 feet.
- Foliage: Large, lobed, light green leaves turn golden-yellow in fall.
- Growth Habit: Upright, spreading growth habit with a broad, rounded canopy.
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.
- Soil: Thrives in moist, well-drained soil but adapts to a variety of soil types.
- Hardiness: Hardy in USDA Zones 4-9.
- pH Level: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6.0-7.5).
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree.
- Pests/Diseases: Generally resistant to pests but may occasionally be affected by anthracnose.
Pollination:
The American Sycamore is not dependent on pollinators, as it produces wind-pollinated flowers. It’s primarily grown for its ornamental and shade-providing properties rather than for fruit production. The tree produces small, round seed balls in fall, which often persist into winter.
Key Benefits:
- Fast-growing, providing quick shade for large landscapes.
- Unique exfoliating bark, which peels in patches to reveal a stunning mix of white, gray, and green tones.
- Extremely hardy and adaptable to urban environments, making it a low-maintenance option.
- Provides ample shade and enhances the landscape with its large, attractive foliage.
Care Instructions:
- Light: Prefers full sun for optimal growth but can tolerate partial shade.
- Water: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. The tree prefers moist soils but is somewhat drought-tolerant once established.
- Soil Type: Thrives in well-drained, moist soils but adapts to sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
- Growth Rate: Fast-growing, reaching maturity in 20-30 years.
- Max Height/Width: Can reach up to 70-100 feet in height and 60-80 feet in width.
- Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove dead branches or shape the tree. Minimal pruning is generally required.
Why You'll Love It:
The American Sycamore is a magnificent, fast-growing tree that makes an immediate impact in large landscapes. Its unique peeling bark provides visual interest year-round, while its broad canopy offers ample shade during the warmer months. The tree's adaptability and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a striking and resilient shade tree.
Planting Tips:
Plant your American Sycamore in early spring or fall in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root system and plant at the same depth it was growing in the nursery. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch around the base to retain moisture. Regular watering during the first few years will help the tree establish a strong root system.
Flower Color:
Not grown for flowers; produces inconspicuous green-yellow flowers in spring, followed by round seed balls in fall.
Plant Class:
Fast-Growing Shade Tree
Plant Name:
American Sycamore
Shipping Details:
Your American Sycamore will be shipped as a bare root tree, 2-3 feet in height, carefully packaged to ensure it arrives in optimal condition. Bare root trees are shipped during dormancy to promote successful transplanting and establishment in your landscape.
