Platanus mexicana (Mexican Sycamore)
Botanical Information
Family | Platanaceae |
Genus | Platanus |
Species | mexicana |
Type | Tree (deciduous), Shrub (deciduous) |
References | SelecTree. "Platanus mexicana Tree Record." 1995-2019. Jun 10, 2019. Retrieved from https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/platanus-mexicana |
Origin | Native to northeastern and central Mexico. |
Ethnobotanical Uses Disclaimer | The wood is used for general carpentry, dishes, and spoons. |
Details
USDA Hardiness Zone | 8b |
USDA Hardiness Ref. | |
Canadian Hardiness Zone | Requires cold season protection under glass. |
Canada Hardiness Ref. | |
RHS Hardiness Zone | H4 |
RHS Hardiness Ref. | |
Height | 15 m |
Spread | 9 m |
Growth | Fast |
Flowering Period | January, February, December |
Description and Growing Information
General Description | Flood tolerant; a good street or park tree. |
ID Characteristic | Mexican sycamore is slightly smaller than native American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis). |
Shape | Oval, rounded or umbrella shaped. |
Landscape | The tree is often planted to provide shade. |
Propagation | By seed, stem cuttings of mature wood of the current years growth, and layering of stools in spring or autumn. |
Cultivation | Grows best in full sun and is adapted to most soils, including alkaline soils. |
Pests | Shot hole borer, beetle borers, scale and spider mites, Anthracnose and powdery mildew. |
Notable Specimens | Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando, Florida, United States of America. |
Habitat | Along watercourses. |
Bark/Stem Description | Smooth bark, white and tan in colour. |
Leaf Description | Palmate, medium green, deciduous leaves. |
Flower Description | Separate male and female flowers on the same tree (monoecious). |
Fruit Description | Prolific, brown or mostly green achene, medium 1 - 2 cm, fruiting in autumn or winter. |
Texture Description | Plants are very tolerant of compacted soils and air pollution. |