The American Sycamore or Platanus racemosa is a massive, majestic and native California tree that can easily be distinguished by it’s mottled grey bark. When the tree expands, as all trees do, the bark flakes off in irregular pieces, rather than stretching like some trees are able to do. This is what causes the bark to appear a light greenish white, grey and brown.
Sycamores can grow into massive trees, reaching as much as 131 feet high. It can be found mostly in riparian and wetland areas. It likes full sun but can also thrive in light shade. It likes well drained soil. The tree is fire resistant and can also withstand high winds and high heat. Native Americans used Sycamores for dugout canoes.
