Platanus orientalis (Old World Sycamore)

Platanus orientalis, also known as Old World Sycamore, Oriental Sycamore, or Oriental Plane, is a tree that commands respect and admiration. Its contribution to natural and urban landscapes is significant, making it a cherished species in regions where it thrives.

Platanus orientalis: An In-depth Look

Native: The native range of this Sycamore species extends across Eurasia, spanning from the Balkans to Iran and Central Asia. Platanus orientalis is one of the parents of the London plane tree (P. orientalis × P. occidentalis).

Plant Type and Habit: The Old World Sycamore is a very large, spreading deciduous tree adorned with a short trunk and a rounded canopy with horizontal branches. The tree boasts a lifespan typically exceeding 150 years, showcasing remarkable longevity.

Size: It can grow to impressive heights, often reaching 60-80 feet (18-24 m), with a 50-70 feet (15-21 m) spread, making it a dominant landscape feature.

Flowers: The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers grouped in spherical clusters, adding subtle beauty in spring. They give way to small, spiky balls clustered on long stalks. They persist into winter, adding visual interest.

Foliage: The leaves are large, 4-10 inches wide (10-25 cm), palmate, and deeply lobed, turning yellow-brown in the fall, creating a stunning display.

Bark: The bark is one of its most notable features, flaking away in patches to reveal a mosaic of greens, grays, and browns beneath. It is striking in the winter.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 7-9, tolerating various climatic conditions but preferring temperate climates.

Uses: The majestic size and unique bark of this Sycomore make it popular in parks and large gardens. It is an excellent shade tree. Historically, its wood was used for various utilitarian purposes.

Wildlife: The tree provides habitat and food for birds and insects, particularly its seed balls and nectar-rich flowers.

Deer and Rabbits: Generally resistant to deer and rabbits.

Drought Tolerance: It has moderate drought tolerance but thrives best with consistent moisture.

Toxicity: There are no known toxic effects on humans or animals.

Invasiveness: Platanus orientalis is not considered invasive in most of its growing range.

Benefits: The Old World Sycamore aids air purification and generally tolerates most urban pollutants. It captivates in winter with its unique structure, attractive persistent fruits, and strikingly showy bark, adding visual interest during the colder months.

How to Grow and Care for an Old World Sycamore

Choosing the Right Location

• Sunlight: This Sycamore thrives in full sun. Choose a location that receives ample daily sunlight.
• Soil: Prefers humus-rich, fertile, well-drained soils. While adaptable, it does best in soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Planting

• Best Time: Plant in early spring or fall when the tree is dormant.
• Spacing: Given its large size at maturity, ensure sufficient space from buildings and other structures. Plant at least 20-30 feet (6-9 m) away from permanent structures.
• Planting Process: Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Position the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, watering thoroughly afterward.

Regular Watering

• Sycamore trees perform best with consistent moisture, especially in dry conditions. Tolerates dryish soils once established.

Fertilization

• Young Trees: Fertilize in the early growing seasons to encourage robust growth. Use a balanced fertilizer according to package instructions.
• Established Trees: Mature trees typically don’t require frequent fertilization.

Pruning

• Timing: Prune during dormancy in late winter or early spring.
• Purpose: Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Pruning can also help maintain the tree’s shape and promote healthy growth.

General Maintenance

• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
• Monitoring: Regularly check the tree’s health and growth and adjust care as needed.

Propagation

• Propagate from hardwood cuttings in winter or suckers in autumn or late winter

Sycamore – Pests, Diseases and Common Problems

• Pests: Keep an eye out for aphids,  borers, scale insects, Japanese beetles, caterpillars, bagworms, and spider mites.
• Diseases: Cankers, leaf spot diseases, powdery mildew. This beautiful tree can be subject to anthracnose attacks in wet, cool springs, a disease that causes moderate to severe leaf drop.
• Debris: The tree can produce considerable leaf and fruit debris, requiring regular cleanup.
• Roots: The roots can lift sidewalks and interfere with sewer lines.