Status:
valid
Authors:
L.
Source:
cmp
Year:
1753
Citation Micro:
Sp. Pl. : 999 (1753)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000487082
Common Names
- Platanus occidentalis
- American Sycamore
- Western Sycamore
Synonyms
- Platanus orientalis occidentalis Kuntze [unknown]
- Platanus occidentalis attenuata Sarg. [unknown]
- Platanus lobata Moench [unknown]
- Platanus integrifolia hort. ex K.Koch [unknown]
- Platanus excelsa Salisb. [unknown]
- Platanus densicoma Dode [unknown]
- Platanus pyramidalis hort. ex Dippel [unknown]
- Platanus vulgaris angulosa Spach [unknown]
- Platanus occidentalis occidentalis [unknown]
- Platanus occidentalis occidentalis [unknown]
Description
Platanus occidentalis (also called American Sycamore, among many other common names) is a deciduous tree native to North America. It has large, lobed leaves and small, yellow flowers. It grows in moist soils, along rivers, and in disturbed areas.
Uses & Benefits
Platanus occidentalis is a large, deciduous tree with a wide, spreading canopy. It is often used in urban landscapes and parks. Its leaves are used as a source of food for some species of butterflies and moths. The wood is used for making furniture and musical instruments.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Platanus occidentalis has small, yellowish-white flowers. The seeds are small and round. The seedlings are thin and long, with a single stem and small, oval-shaped leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Platanus occidentalis is a deciduous tree that can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring in a well-draining soil mix. Cuttings should be taken in spring or summer and rooted in a well-draining soil mix. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and regular watering.
Where to Find Platanus occidentalis
Platanus occidentalis is native to North America and is found in moist, well-drained soils. It is also found in parts of the United States and Canada.
Platanus occidentalis FAQ
What is the common name of Platanus occidentalis?
American Sycamore
What is the growth habit of Platanus occidentalis?
It is a deciduous tree with a spreading growth habit.
What is the native range of Platanus occidentalis?
It is native to eastern North America.
Species in the Platanus genus
Platanus gentryi,
Platanus rzedowskii,
Platanus kerrii,
Platanus lindeniana,
Platanus mexicana,
Platanus wrightii,
Platanus occidentalis,
Platanus orientalis,
Platanus racemosa,
Platanus acerifolia,
Species in the Platanaceae family
Platanus gentryi,
Platanus rzedowskii,
Platanus kerrii,
Platanus lindeniana,
Platanus mexicana,
Platanus wrightii,
Platanus occidentalis,
Platanus orientalis,
Platanus racemosa,
Platanus acerifolia,