American Sycamore

Platanus occidentalis

Tree30×30 mzone 4–9full sun

Profile

Family: Platanaceae
Habit: Tree
Height: 30 m
Spread: 30 m
Growth: very fast
Lifespan: 500 years
First yield: after 8 years
Hardiness: zone 4–9
Shade tolerance: full sun
Soil: Sand, Silt, Loam
Soil moisture: semi-dry – very wet
pH: 4 – 8.6
Synonyms: Sycamore, American Plane Tree

Flowering & harvest

	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Flowering
Fruit harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Edible2 of 10

Medicinal3 of 10

Other uses7 of 10

Growing

Platanus occidentalis prefers sunny sites with moist, well-drained soils. The plant grows quickly and needs ample space. Propagation is by seed or cuttings. Regular watering and occasional feeding promote growth. Pruning should be done in late winter.

⚠️ Hazards

Toxicity: slightly toxic

This is no substitute for expert identification. When in doubt, do not eat it.

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