SeedlingSycamore
American Sycamore
Platanus occidentalis
$4.50per seedling
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This species isn't available to order yet — check back when the next season opens.
Quick facts
- Mature size
- — 75–100 ft tall · 60–75 ft wide
- Growth speed
- — Fast — more than 2 ft of new growth a year
- Sunlight
- — Full sun (6+ hrs direct sun)
- Soil
- — Average / moist · Wet / occasionally flooded
- Good for
- — Reforestation & timber · Erosion control · Yard, shade & beauty · Streamside & wet areas
- Wildlife
- — Huge hollow trunks shelter wood ducks, owls, and raccoons; winter seed balls feed finches.
About this species
American sycamore is a majestic native tree easily recognized by its mottled bark, which peels away in patches to reveal creamy white and light brown tones beneath—a striking feature that stands out in any landscape. It grows rapidly and can reach impressive heights, developing a broad, open crown and large, maple-like leaves that provide abundant shade. Sycamore thrives in moist, well-drained soils and is commonly found along rivers, streams, and floodplains across Ohio, where its tolerance for periodic flooding makes it ecologically valuable. Known for its distinctive seed balls, strong wood, and iconic appearance, American sycamore remains a resilient and visually memorable component of both natural and urban environments.
Planting notes
Built for streambanks and floodplains — shrugs off weeks of wet feet. Grows huge; allow at least 30 feet from structures.