Platanus occidentalis

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American Sycamore or Buttonwood

 
Plant photo of: Platanus occidentalis
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Information by: Jerry Sortomme        Photographer: Connon Nursery, JJ Neilso

 

Description

This beautiful deciduous tree rapidly reaches 75'-90' tall and 60'-70' wide. It starts out with a pyramidal habit and changes to a broad round crown later. Leaves are simple, green and can be 6"-10" long. Foliage turns yellow brown in fall. Red flowers appear in the spring but are not significant. The bark exfoliatesand can be reddish brown or gray. The peeling bark reveals a white inner bark. This tree needs moist, fertile, well-draining soil with full sun. Plant in large space areas such as parks.

 

  • Anatomy

  • Culture

  • Design

Plant Type

Tree

 

Height Range

60-100'

 

Flower Color

Red

 

Flower Season

Spring

 

Leaf Color

Green

 

Bark Color

Brown, Grey, Red

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

 

Water

Moderate

 

Growth Rate

Fast

 

Soil Type

Loam

 

Soil Condition

Rich, Well-drained, Moist

 

Soil pH

Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Water Garden, Wetlands, Wild Garden, Woodland

 

Accenting Features

Fall Color, Specimen

 

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall

 

Location Uses

Background, Lawn

 

Special Uses

Shade Tree

 

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.