American Sycamore
Deciduous tree growing 30-40 m tall with a spreading crown. Features large, maple-like leaves and distinctive mottled bark that peels in patches. Produces round, spiky seed balls. Prefers deep, moist soils and full sun. Tolerates wet soils and urban conditions. Provides nesting sites for birds and food for wildlife. Suitable for large landscapes, parks, and urban settings. Native to eastern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Brown (balls)
Bloom Time: Spring
Sun Requirements: Sun
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Leaves emerge late May. Round flower heads appear with leaves. Distinctive round fruits develop green, maturing to brown, persisting through winter. Yellow-brown fall color develops October.
Wildlife Value: Seeds eaten by purple finches and other songbirds; cavity nesting sites for birds and mammals; bark used by beavers
Habit Over Time: Develops into a massive, broad-crowned tree with distinctive mottled bark that creates year-round interest. The canopy provides good shade but allows enough light penetration for understory plants. While it produces abundant seeds, they're easily managed. The root system is extensive but not particularly aggressive toward other plants.
Height: Very Tall (75-100 feet)