Platanus mexicana (Mexican Sycamore)


Botanical Information

FamilyPlatanaceae
GenusPlatanus
Speciesmexicana
TypeTree (deciduous), Shrub (deciduous)
ReferencesSelecTree. "Platanus mexicana Tree Record." 1995-2019. Jun 10, 2019. Retrieved from https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/platanus-mexicana
OriginNative to northeastern and central Mexico.
Ethnobotanical Uses
Disclaimer
The wood is used for general carpentry, dishes, and spoons.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone8b
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneRequires cold season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH4
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Height15 m
Spread9 m
GrowthFast
Flowering PeriodJanuary, February, December

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionFlood tolerant; a good street or park tree.
ID CharacteristicMexican sycamore is slightly smaller than native American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis). 
ShapeOval, rounded or umbrella shaped.
LandscapeThe tree is often planted to provide shade.
PropagationBy seed, stem cuttings of mature wood of the current years growth, and layering of stools in spring or autumn.
CultivationGrows best in full sun and is adapted to most soils, including alkaline soils.
PestsShot hole borer, beetle borers, scale and spider mites, Anthracnose and powdery mildew.
Notable SpecimensHarry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando, Florida, United States of America.
HabitatAlong watercourses.
Bark/Stem DescriptionSmooth bark, white and tan in colour.
Leaf DescriptionPalmate, medium green, deciduous leaves.
Flower DescriptionSeparate male and female flowers on the same tree (monoecious).
Fruit DescriptionProlific, brown or mostly green achene, medium 1 - 2 cm, fruiting in autumn or winter.
Texture DescriptionPlants are very tolerant of compacted soils and air pollution.

Photographs