Sycamore
Platanus occidentalis · Platanaceae (Plane-tree family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Broadly ovate to orbicular with 3 to 5 palmately arranged lobes
Margin
Coarsely serrate and dentate with shallow, sinuate sinuses between the lobes
Arrangement
Alternate arrangement along the twigs, featuring a distinctive hollow petiole base that completely covers the next year's bud
Venation
Palmate venation with multiple primary veins radiating outward from the base of the leaf blade, supplemented by a prominent reticulate (net-like) minor vein network.
Key Features
Distinguished by its massive size, camouflage-like peeling bark, large palmately lobed leaves with coarse teeth, and unique hollow petioles that conceal the axillary buds.
Description
The American Sycamore is one of the most massive and easily recognizable deciduous trees in North America. It is famous for its mottled, exfoliating bark that sheds in large irregular plates, revealing striking white, green, and gray inner bark. It produces globe-like aggregate fruits known as buttonballs that hang on slender stalks through the winter.
Habitat
Found primarily along rich stream banks, floodplains, river valleys, and alluvial soils. Prefers moist, deep soils and full sun exposure.
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, stretching from southern Ontario down to Florida, and west to the Great Plains. Extensively planted as an urban shade tree.