As a trained horticulturist, I can say that it isn’t always easy to identify trees; especially from a distance.

However, the Sycamore tree is one that is not only easy to identify but a beautiful part of the fall and winter landscape.

Sycamore trees have a distinctive, mottled green, brown and white bark.

As the tree matures, the highest branches become all white.

This makes them distinctively different from most trees.

Therefore, Sycamore trees stand-out in a park, forest or even a neighborhood.

This makes them easy to identify, especially in the winter.

Types of Sycamore Trees

There are two popular types of Sycamore trees in the Midwest- the American Sycamore and the London Planetree.

Both have the characteristic Sycamore bark.

American Sycamore

The American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) is native to Ohio and grows along streams and wetlands.

They are also found in many parks that have preserved the native landscape.

My husband and I enjoy hiking and taking walks in the Cleveland Metroparks.

One of our favorites is Big Creek Parkway.

Sycamore trees grow naturally along the winding creek and are easy to spot throughout the park.

They are majestic, tall trees reaching 50-75′.

Even my husband, Jimmy can identify them!

Its close relative, the London Planetree (Platanus x acerifolia), has the unique feature of being tolerant of pollution and compacted soils.

Therefore, landscapers plant them in cities and urban environments.

So the next time you are taking a walk or driving through the city, keep your eyes open for this gem.

You can impress your friends with your tree identification skills!

Thanks for visiting! Please let me know if you have any suggestions for future articles. Click here to send me a note!