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Public Plant Profile

American Sycamore

Platanus occidentalis

Category: Deciduous Tree • Sycamore

American Sycamore is a massive, long-lived tree ideal for shade and specimen planting.

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Mature Height: 75-100 feet

Mature Width: 75-100 feet

Light: Sun

Zone: Zones 4-9

Maintenance: Moderate

Growth Rate: Fast

Season of Interest: Multi-season

Foliage: Deciduous

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

The American sycamore is a large, long-lived tree native to the eastern and central U.S. It can grow impressively tall and wide, often living for centuries. Known for its durability, this tree can thrive in various environments.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils. It can tolerate a range of soil types.

Soil Preferences

Requires good drainage and moderate moisture. Adaptable to various pH levels.

Sun Needs

Sun

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenshade tree

Special Features

Long-livedlarge canopyattractive bark

Wildlife Value

Provides habitat and food for various wildlife.

Resistance / Tolerance

Tolerates urban conditions and some drought.

Notes from Our Designer

Ideal for large spaces due to its size. Provides excellent shade and visual interest.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where American Sycamore may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is American Sycamore a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

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