Platanus
( PLAT - ah - nuss )
At-A-Glance InformationCommonly called Plane Tree or Sycamore, this genus of deciduous trees needs full sun and moderate to regular water. These trees will attract butterflies to your garden. Plane Trees are known for their shedding bark, their seed clusters that hang onto bare branches through the winter months, and their usefulness as street and shade trees. A common problem with these trees is Anthracnose, which is a disease that causes dieback and early leaf drop.
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Platanus Species and Varietals
The ideal growing zones for Platanus trees vary depending on the species grown. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Platanus x hispanica (Platanus x acerifolia) London Plane Tree This species grows well in zones 2-24 and is a hybrid variety between Platanus occidentalis and Platanus orientalis. These trees quickly reach 40-80 feet tall and 30-40 feet wide, with good tolerance for smog, soot, dust, and reflected heat. This species is susceptible to mildew. Varieties include 'Bloodgood' (resistant to Anthracnose), 'Yarwood', (with good mildew resistance), 'Columbia' (resistant to both mildew and Anthracnose). Commonly grown 'Morton Circle' (also called 'Exclamation') is a great, upright grower to 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide, with a good resistance to Anthracnose. |
Platanus occidentalis (American Sycamore, Buttonwood) This species is best in zones 1-24 and is native to the eastern United States. These trees have irregular habits, and has been seen growing as a leaning tree and with multiple trunks. Best in large gardens. Trees reach about 40-80 feet tall and 30-40 feet wide. |
Platanus racemosa (California Sycamore) This species does well in zones 4-24, and is a hearty native of coastal California and the Coast Ranges. Reaches 30-80 feet and 20-50 feet wide in a short amount of time. Bark is patchy and attractive, and leaves turn brown in fall. Can take heat and windy conditions. Good for large or informal gardens. |
Caring for and pruning Name Trees
Propagation
Problems and Pests
The large surface roots that Platanus trees have make it difficult sometimes to maintain concrete walkways or sidewalks nearby.
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Pages 512 - 513, Platanus
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