California sycamore
Platanus racemosa 路 Platanaceae 路 also Western sycamore, Aliso
A big, fast riparian tree, often with several leaning trunks, mottled white, tan and gray bark, large maple-like leaves and hanging strings of bristly seed balls. Leaves turn gold to orange-red and drop in fall. It is widely planted in parks and gardens for its sculptural trunks and summer shade; anthracnose twists new growth in cool wet springs, and its roots, big leaves and fuzzy fruit make it a messy tree near pavement. Its pollen is allergenic.
Where it stands
Native
- 馃嚭馃嚫 CA, United States 路 Native to California riparian areas (and Baja California).source
Care
Give it full sun and regular deep watering until established, then about monthly in summer unless it has access to a water table. Prune in winter to develop a strong structure; multi-trunk training is traditional. Anthracnose and the invasive shot hole borer with Fusarium dieback are the main threats; rake and remove infected leaves.
Benefits
Good for