SafePlants

American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis)

The American Sycamore, scientifically known as Platanus occidentalis, is a majestic tree native to North America. It is also commonly known as American planetree, occidental plane, and buttonwood.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Platanus occidentalis L.
• Family: Platanaceae (Plane Tree family)
• Synonyms: American planetree, occidental plane, buttonwood, eastern sycamore, buttonball tree, American Plane Tree.

Distribution and Habitat

• The American Sycamore is native to eastern and central United States.
• It occurs in all states east of the Great Plains except for Minnesota.
• It is also found in parts of Canada.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a large, wide-canopied, deciduous tree, typically reaching 75-100 feet in height.
• The trunk can be massive, with an open crown of huge, crooked branches.
• Leaves are alternate, simple, and palmately veined with three to five lobes, resembling a hand.
• It has a rapid growth rate and tolerates wet conditions.
• The bark is distinctive, with a mottled, exfoliating pattern that reveals lighter layers underneath, sometimes referred to as a "camouflage tree."

Quirky Facts

• The American Sycamore is sometimes called a "camouflage tree" because of its mottled bark.
• Historically, two brothers once lived inside the hollow trunk of an American Sycamore for three years.

Ecological Role

• Sycamores make great shade trees because of their dense foliage and great fall color.
• Showy seeds provide food for wildlife.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Associates with boxelder (Acer negundo), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), and sugarberry (Celtis).

Further Information

• Additional information can be found at Iowa State University's www.ipmimages.org (referencing Paul Wray's images).
• Proteales of North America Update, database (version 2011).
• Nebraska Forest Service.