The Growth Rate for an American Sycamore Tree
The American sycamore develops especially quickly into a very large tree. With the exception of Minnesota, this variety of tree grows in all of the United States east of the Great Plains. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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The American sycamore tree, known as Platanus occidentalis, is also referred to as the American planetree, buttonwood or buttonball-tree. It is especially found in lowlands and old fields and is often planted for shade. Only cottonwoods, pines, soft maples and the black willow are known to grow more quickly.
Growth Rate
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The American sycamore -- when a seedling or sapling -- grows from 2.4 to 3.5 inches in diameter every decade. The number is similar even when the tree achieves the mature status of sawtimber. The U.S. Forest Service says that the growth rate could be smaller when the tree is planted on a poor site.
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Record Growth
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Exceptional American sycamores may grow to 120 inches in diameter and up to 140 feet tall. A record tree in Indiana was recorded at 126 inches in diameter and 168 feet in height. The American sycamore often achieves a canopy spread of 100 feet in diameter and, according to the Arbor Day Foundation, thrives best in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 9.
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References
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