American Sycamore

Platanus occidentalis 

Platanus occidentalis, commonly known as the American sycamore, American plane, or buttonwood, is a species of deciduous tree native to North America. It belongs to the Platanaceae family, which includes other sycamore species.

The American sycamore is a large, fast-growing tree that typically reaches heights of 75 to 100 feet or more. It has a broad, spreading crown and distinctive bark that exfoliates in irregular patches, revealing a mottled pattern of white, green, and brown.

The leaves of the American sycamore are large, palmately lobed, and alternate, with three to five deep lobes and toothed margins. They are bright green in color and turn yellow to brown in the fall before dropping.

American sycamores are typically found growing in a variety of habitats, including floodplains, riverbanks, and bottomlands, where they thrive in moist, well-drained soils. They are known for their tolerance to wet conditions and are often planted along waterways for erosion control and streambank stabilization.

In addition to its ecological importance, the American sycamore is valued for its ornamental beauty and shade-providing qualities. It is commonly planted in parks, gardens, and landscapes, where it provides habitat and food for wildlife species such as birds and mammals.

The wood of the American sycamore is relatively soft and lightweight, making it less desirable for some commercial uses compared to other hardwood species. However, it has been used in the past for furniture, millwork, and pulpwood.