As a gardening and landscaping expert, I’ve often come across the confusion surrounding the American sycamore and the London plane tree. These two tree species can be easily mistaken for one another, especially when they are young and their features are not fully developed. However, with a closer look and some key observations, telling them apart becomes much easier.
One of the main reasons for the confusion is their similar bark patterns. Both the American sycamore and the London plane tree have a distinctive mottled and exfoliating bark, which can make it challenging to differentiate between the two at first glance. The bark of both trees peels off in patches, revealing lighter-colored inner bark beneath. This unique characteristic gives them an almost camouflage-like appearance.
To properly identify these trees, it is best to examine them when they are mature. The American sycamore, also known as Platanus occidentalis, is a large deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 100 feet. Its bark turns a grayish-white color as it matures, and the patches become more pronounced and distinct. The exfoliating bark of the American sycamore often reveals creamy white, greenish, or light brown patches, adding to its overall charm.
On the other hand, the London plane tree, scientifically known as Platanus × acerifolia, is also a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 100 feet tall. Its bark develops a patchy appearance as it ages, similar to the American sycamore. However, the patches tend to be more uniform in color, often displaying a combination of light green and gray. The patches on the London plane tree’s bark are generally smaller and more closely packed compared to those of the American sycamore.
Apart from the bark, there are a few other distinguishing features to look out for. The leaves of the American sycamore are broad and palm-shaped, with three to five lobes. These leaves have a coarse texture and can grow up to 10 inches in length. In contrast, the London plane tree has leaves that are maple-like, with five prominent lobes. These leaves are slightly smaller than those of the American sycamore, typically measuring around 4-6 inches in length.
When it comes to their overall appearance, the American sycamore tends to have a more irregular and open crown, while the London plane tree has a more symmetrical and rounded crown. Additionally, the American sycamore produces spherical seed balls that are spiky and brown, while the London plane tree produces round seed balls that are less spiky and tend to be green when young, turning brown with age.
In my own experiences with these trees, I’ve encountered numerous cases where people have mistaken one for the other. It can be especially tricky when the trees are young and their bark patterns are less defined. However, by closely observing the bark, leaves, and overall appearance, it becomes easier to differentiate between the American sycamore and the London plane tree.
To summarize, the American sycamore and the London plane tree are often confused due to their similarly patterned, mottled, exfoliating bark. However, by considering factors such as the color and size of the patches, the shape and texture of the leaves, and the overall crown structure, it becomes possible to distinguish between these two tree species, particularly when they have reached maturity.
