Platanus occidentalis

Platanus occidentalis American sycamore

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This tree is deciduous and wide-canopied, growing up to 100 ft tall. The bark of older trunks tends to scale off revealing a smooth inner bark of lighter shade. Shade-loving tree, its trunk has the largest diameter of all native trees.

Habitat & Range

Grows along stream banks, low woods, alluvial soils.

Present throughout the state.

Wetland codes

EMP:	FACW
NCNE:	FACW

Phenology

Flowers in March and April.

Characteristics

Flowers greenish-yellow

Leaves broadly ovate, a shape similar to that of maples.

Fruits globular, staying on the tree through December.

Plant Codes

S-rank: S5 (Secure)
G-rank: G5 (Secure)

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