American Sycamore vs Ironwood Tree - TreeTime.ca

American Sycamore vs Ironwood Tree

Platanus occidentalis

Ostrya virginiana

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

American Sycamore
Ironwood Tree

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.

Ironwood Tree is one of the strongest and most resilient trees you will find in North America. In fact, it has the hardest and most dense wood of any North American tree. Prized for its oval shaped canopy and showy winter trunk, this striking shade tree will make a beautiful addition to any yard. Make sure you do not plant near roads as it is highly salt sensitive.

American Sycamore Quick Facts

Ironwood Tree Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 3a
Height: 23 m (75 ft)
Height: 8 m (25 ft)
Spread: 6 m (20 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: any
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: any
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: slow
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: none
Suckering: none


Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Native to: ON
Native to: ON, QC, NS, NB, PE