Western Sycamore
Platanus racemosa
Also listed as Platanus californica
Also known as California Sycamore, California Planetree, California Plane
Climate Match for your location
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A large, fast-growing California native tree with attractive exfoliating bark that reveals pale inner wood. It thrives in full sun and is drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for riparian areas and large landscapes.
Why grow it
Western sycamore grows substantially faster than its eastern counterpart (Platanus occidentalis) and tolerates drier conditions, making it better suited to western landscapes with limited water. Among native California riparian trees, it offers superior drought tolerance once established while providing reliable summer shade and structural presence in large-scale designs. Its exfoliating bark provides winter interest without requiring supplemental irrigation in appropriate climates.
Watch out for
This tree produces considerable leaf and twig litter throughout the year, requiring regular cleanup in manicured settings. The aggressive root system can damage nearby hardscape or underground utilities if planted in confined spaces, so site selection should account for eventual mature spread.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Platanaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California native
Native to: California
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A large, fast-growing California native tree with attractive exfoliating bark that reveals pale inner wood. It thrives in full sun and is drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for riparian areas and large landscapes.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Western Sycamore grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Western sycamore grows substantially faster than its eastern counterpart (Platanus occidentalis) and tolerates drier conditions, making it better suited to western landscapes with limited water. Among native California riparian trees, it offers superior drought tolerance once established while providing reliable summer shade and structural presence in large-scale designs. Its exfoliating bark provides winter interest without requiring supplemental irrigation in appropriate climates.
Watch out for
This tree produces considerable leaf and twig litter throughout the year, requiring regular cleanup in manicured settings. The aggressive root system can damage nearby hardscape or underground utilities if planted in confined spaces, so site selection should account for eventual mature spread.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Platanaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California native
Native to: California
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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