Platanus occidentalis aka American Sycamore

Taxonomy

Genus Platanus Family Platanaceae Order Proteales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Platanus occidentalis, also known as American sycamore, western plane, occidental plane, buttonwood, and water beech, is a species of Platanus native to the eastern and central United States, as well as the mountains of northeastern Mexico and possibly extreme southern Ontario and Quebec. It is a large, vigorous, and broadly columnar tree that can reach heights of up to 25m. The bark of the American sycamore is flaking and features shades of brown, grey, and cream. Its bright green, sycamore-like leaves have three or five pointed lobes. Inconspicuous flowers are followed by spherical seed clusters that hang in ones or twos on long stems, starting out green and turning brown, persisting through the winter. The American sycamore is a long-lived species, with a lifespan of at least 200 years, possibly extending to 500-600 years. It is commonly found in lowland areas, particularly along streams, rivers, and flood plains. The tree is characterized by its massive size, reaching heights of 75-100' (occasionally up to 150') with a trunk diameter ranging from 3-8' (sometimes up to 16'). The bark of mature trees is mottled white, providing easy identification even from a distance. The name "sycamore" can be confusing, as it is used to refer to different types of trees in various parts of the world. The species epithet "occidentalis" means "western" in Latin, distinguishing it from the Eastern Hemisphere's native species, Platanus orientalis.

Common names

American Sycamore, Sycamore, Tulip Poplar

How to care for American Sycamore

Difficulty

If you're an experienced gardener looking to push your limits, American Sycamore will provide you with a rewarding and challenging experience.

Water

American Sycamore should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

American Sycamore loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

American Sycamore thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Tulip Poplar.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Region of origin

American Sycamore’s native range is Eastern N. America - New England to Florida, west to Texas and Nebraska.

More info:
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More Species in Platanus Genus

Platanus wrightii Arizona Sycamore

Platanus mexicana Mexican Plane

Platanus racemosa California Sycamore

Platanus hispanica London Planetree

Platanus orientalis Oriental Plane

Platanus occidentalis American Sycamore