Sycamore

Sycamore — Platanus occidentalis

Platanus is from the Greek platys, meaning broad or ample and refers to the spreading branches and shady foliage; occidentalis means from the Western World.

The Sycamore grows to enormous size in favorable areas in its native range and to pioneers the presence of this tree as well as its great size were correctly taken to denote rich soil. Pioneers would often stable a horse, pig or cow in a hollowed-out old Sycamore and sometimes a whole family would take shelter in one of these giant trees while building their cabin.

Sycamore, or sometimes called Planetree, is a native of the eastern United States as far north as New Hampshire and south to northern Florida. It is commonly a streambank tree but will adapt to drier, upland soils. It is easily recognized any time of year by the mottled brown, white and sometimes green flaky bark. When in foliage, it is recognized by the large palmately-lobed leaves but could be mistaken for a maple. Note, however, that Sycamore leaves are borne alternately on the stem, unlike those of maple that are in opposing pairs. The bud of Sycamore is also hidden beneath the swollen leaf stalk (petiole).

In winter the buds become obvious. They are triangular and surrounded by the scar left by the petiole. The fruit is a “ball” of dry, bristly seeds called achenes. These separate in the U, late winter and / scatter on windy - days. Because of the fruit, some call this tree the “button ball tree.” Sycamore does best in moist, acid soil. In drier, more alkaline conditions, the foliage will become yellow (chlorotic) due to a deficiency of available iron needed to maintain chlorophyll production.

During rainy spells in mid-summer, the tree may develop a foliage disease known as anthracnose. A serious infection can cause premature defoliation and weakening of the tree.

Other Denver locations

Marion Parkway north from Washington Highland Park at 32nd and Federal

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Platanus_occidentalis