American Sycamore
Platanus occidentalis
Dimensions:
Height: 75’ - 100’
Mature spread: 75’ - 100’
Trunk Diameter: 4’ - 6’
Habitat and Range:
along streams, in wetland areas, and in old fields
prefers full sun
found in every county in Kentucky
Features:
one of the largest trees in the Eastern Forest
lives 200-600 years
has distinctive mottled bark which flakes off
recommended for planting in strip mine sites
host plant for sycamore tussock moth
heartwood decays quickly leaving large cavities used by bats and birds and even bears
tolerant of most urban pollution
seedhead hangs down from a twig and persists into winter
used to make particle board, crates, and butcher blocks
History:
Native Americans made canoes from the trunks
