How to Grow American Sycamore - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

American sycamore is a large, deciduous tree that can reach a height of 60 to 100 feet. it has a large, spreading canopy of branches and leaves that provide shade and beauty in the summer, and its bark exfoliates in thin, papery sheets that reveal a smooth, cream-colored inner bark. the sycamore is a popular tree for landscaping and is frequently planted as a street tree or in parks.

How to Grow American Sycamore - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

  • buttonball
  • plane tree
  • tulip tree
  • whitewood
  • American sweetgum

Basic info

  • The american sycamore is a large, deciduous tree that can grow up to 100 feet tall.
  • It has a broad, round crown and large, spreading branches.
  • The bark is white or pale gray, and the leaves are large, elliptical, and green.
  • The american sycamore is native to the eastern United States and Canada.
  • It prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.
  • It is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, including clay, sand, and loam.
  • The american sycamore is an important food source for a variety of animals, including squirrels, deer, and birds.
  • It is also a popular landscaping tree and is often planted in parks and along streets.
  • The wood of the american sycamore is strong and durable, making it ideal for a variety of uses, including furniture, flooring, and cabinetry.
  • The american sycamore is susceptible to a number of diseases and pests, including scale, aphids, and borers.

Related plant:
Brunfelsia Americana

How to Grow

  1. For american sycamore, first step is to find a site with plenty of sunlight and good drainage.
  2. Prepare the planting hole by digging it twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
  3. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping it down as you go.
  4. Water the tree deeply, saturating the root ball.
  5. Spread a 3-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it several inches away from the trunk.
  6. Water the tree regularly, especially during the first growing season.
  7. Fertilize the tree annually with a balanced fertilizer.
  8. Prune the tree as needed to maintain its shape.
  9. Monitor the tree for pests and diseases, and treat as needed.
  10. Enjoy your american sycamore for many years to come!

Related plant:
American Beautyberry

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, the American Sycamore grows in a wide range of soils, from very acid to very alkaline, as long as the soil is not waterlogged. It is commonly found on flood plains and near rivers and streams.

About light

Just like other trees, the American sycamore needs sun to grow. However, it is not as picky as some trees and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade. This makes it a good choice for many landscapes. The tree does best in full sun but can also grow in shady areas. It is important to choose a site with good drainage for the American sycamore.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for the American sycamore is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This tree does not do well in cold or hot climates. It is important to keep the soil moist but not wet for this tree.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%. They cannot tolerate having their roots in water, so be sure to have well-draining soil. If the leaves start to turn brown and fall off, the plant is not getting enough moisture.

Fertilizing

For the fertilizer, this kind of plant requires a lot of nitrogen to maintain its growth. For the roots, the American sycamore has a very deep and strong root system. This allows the tree to withstand strong winds and to anchor the tree in the ground.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of caring for an American sycamore tree. Pruning helps to shape the tree, remove dead or diseased branches, and promote new growth. When pruning, be sure to use sharp, clean pruning tools. Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a bud or branch. Avoid leaving stubs, as these can lead to disease.

About Propagating

Propagation of American sycamore is most commonly done viaRoot cuttings taken from young trees in late fall or early winter. Trees that are 2-3 years old and 12-24 inches tall work well for this method. Cuttings should be 6-8 inches long and taken from the tips of healthy roots. The cuttings should be placed in a moistened growing medium such as sand or perlite and placed in a cool location (between 40-50 degrees F). Rooting will typically occur within 4-8 weeks. Once roots have developed, the young trees can be transplanted to their permanent location.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate . The trees grow quickly when they are young, but the growth rate slows down as the trees age. However, even though the growth rate slows, the trees can still grow to be very large. The american sycamore is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of over 100 feet.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew and anthracnose. These can be controlled with fungicide treatments. Other problems include canker, crown dieback, and root rot. These can be controlled with proper cultural practices and chemicals.

Tips on Growing

  • Remember to plant your American sycamore in an area with full sun and well-drained soil.
  • Be sure to space your plants appropriately so they have room to grow.
  • Water your sycamore regularly, especially during the first few years after planting.
  • Fertilize your tree annually to promote growth.
  • Prune your tree regularly to encourage a strong, healthy shape.
  • Protect your tree from pests and diseases by keeping the area around it clean and free of debris.
  • Harvest the leaves and seeds of your American sycamore to use in crafts or as decorations.
  • Enjoy the shade and beauty your American sycamore brings to your home and landscape.
  • Share your love of sycamores with others by planting one in their yard or garden.
  • Most importantly, have patience! It may take several years for your American sycamore to

Similar Plants

  • American figwort (Scrophularia marilandica)
  • American filbert (Corylus americana)
  • American filbert (Corylus americana)
  • American filbert (Corylus americana)
  • American holly (Ilex opaca)
  • American holly (Ilex opaca)
  • American larch (Larix laricina)
  • American leatherwood (Dirca palustris)
  • American mountain ash (Sorbus americana)
  • American mountain ash (Sorbus americana)

Source:
American Sycamore | Glen Arboretum - Towson University
ID That Tree: American Sycamore | Purdue Extension Forestry
ENH1337/EP601: Key Plant, Key Pests: Sycamore (Platanus spp.)

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Trees Category