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Swiss Stone Pine vs American Sycamore
Platanus occidentalis
Pinus cembra
NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON
American Sycamore is the largest tree native to eastern North America. Generally too large and messy to be a street tree, American Sycamore thrives in large, open spaces, such as an acreage or farm.
The bark is one of the main features that draw people to this tree. The outer bark flakes off in irregular pieces to reveal an attractive white, green, and cream colored inner layer, providing winter interest.
American Sycamore has an extremely fast growth rate, gaining up to 6 ft in one year, and will easily reach its mature height in a short period of time. Be wary of this trees' root system, as it's typically very extensive and needs lots of room to expand.
Swiss Stone Pine is a hardy, slow-growing evergreen. Narrowly pyramidal while young, this long-lived tree is adaptable to many soil types. Due to its shape and density, Swiss Stone Pine is a versatile shade or accent tree.
Although our pictures don't show it, this seldom seen tree is among the most attractive conifers we have seen and is likely why it is the most chosen tree used for memorials or dedications in public parks.
Swiss Stone Pine is also sought after for the large seeds it produces. They are often used as pine nuts are and are tasty in pesto.