by CMG Betty J
Sycamore Leaf from Pixabay by Boke9a
The American Sycamore, Platanus occidentalis, is a large tree native to much of the eastern and central United States including eastern Texas and the Texas Hill Country. As a heavy water user, it grows best along stream beds and in bottomlands, and in moist sandy loam or silty clay.
American Sycamore from Pixabay by James DeMers
Sycamores can grow to great heights, sometimes reaching 100 feet tall. Their wide canopy, fast growth habit and attractive appearance make them an ideal choice for specimen trees or to be planted in parks and along the boulevards of residential streets. Also called American Plane Tree, Eastern Sycamore or Buttonball Tree, they have been cultivated in America since colonial times for both shade and lumber and were used by Native Americans for canoes. Some medicinal uses have also been documented.
Sycamore from Pixabay by Hans
These large trees have a single trunk, enlarged at the base and a wide, spreading canopy. The bark of mature trees is smooth and white and peels off in large sections revealing the mottled green and cream inner bark. The base is often much darker than the upper sections. Its leaves are large, simple, alternate, bright green and deciduous with 3-5 pointed lobes.
Sycamore seed ball from Pixabay by NIL-Foto
Flowers appear in April and May with both male and female on the same tree. Pollinated flowers develop into dark brown balls at the end of a stalk. The balls hold small seeds and remain on the trees for much of the winter. The fall leaves are brown.
Sycamore Seed Heads from Pixabay
Propagation is by seeds. The seeds winter over on the tree and if planted in spring will promptly germinate. Stored seeds must be scarified before planting. The seeds are easily collected after the leaves drop off in fall. Dry the seedheads then put them in a bag and crush them to separate the seeds. Store the seeds in a cool place in mesh bags. Sycamore trees are also available commercially.
Sycamore seed from Pixabay by Laila
Sycamore wood is used in furniture manufacturing, millwork, flooring and in specialty pieces such as butcherblocks and crates. This attractive tree is highly deer resistant.