American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) is a massive, fast-growing shade tree instantly recognizable by its mottled, exfoliating bark that reveals creamy white patches beneath. A classic riverbank tree, it tolerates wet soils and provides deep shade with its large maple-like leaves. It blooms in mid-spring, and grows best in full sun with moist soil.
Sycamore has many benefits and is a wonderful option for a restoration project. These are great shade trees, have interesting ornamental bark, and will attract many forms of wildlife
Sycamore leaves act as a larval host plant for over 40 species of moths and butterflies which provide essential high-protein meals for nestling songbirds. The spherical seed balls supply late-winter food for finches and chickadees when other food sources run low.
The large stature and branching habits of the American Sycamore create the ideal nesting cover for birds and wildlife. Older trees will have larger cavities carved out that are appealing to Wood Ducks, Barred Owls, Eastern Screech Owls, Squirrels, and Raccoons. Great Blue Herons, Bald Eagles, Orioles, and other species of birds are known to make American Sycamores their nesting site.
Very fast growing - when located in a sunny spot with moist soil, can gain up to 3’ per year.
American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) is a massive, fast-growing shade tree instantly recognizable by its mottled, exfoliating bark that reveals creamy white patches beneath. A classic riverbank tree, it tolerates wet soils and provides deep shade with its large maple-like leaves. It blooms in mid-spring, and grows best in full sun with moist soil.
Sycamore has many benefits and is a wonderful option for a restoration project. These are great shade trees, have interesting ornamental bark, and will attract many forms of wildlife
Sycamore leaves act as a larval host plant for over 40 species of moths and butterflies which provide essential high-protein meals for nestling songbirds. The spherical seed balls supply late-winter food for finches and chickadees when other food sources run low.
The large stature and branching habits of the American Sycamore create the ideal nesting cover for birds and wildlife. Older trees will have larger cavities carved out that are appealing to Wood Ducks, Barred Owls, Eastern Screech Owls, Squirrels, and Raccoons. Great Blue Herons, Bald Eagles, Orioles, and other species of birds are known to make American Sycamores their nesting site.
Very fast growing - when located in a sunny spot with moist soil, can gain up to 3’ per year.
