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American Sycamore vs Schuettes Oak
Platanus occidentalis
Quercus × schuettei (Quercus bicolor × Quercus macrocarpa
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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.
Schuettes Oak is a naturally occurring hybrid of Swamp White Oak and Bur Oak. With a faster growth than both parent species, it is one of the fastest growing Oak trees. They are known for growing very large and wide, so space them appropriately. It is considered one of the most adaptable Oaks with little preference on soil conditions. It can handle growing in wet, saturated soils as well as those that are dry, clay, or alkaline.
The Schuettes Oak has very large acorns. They have a large cup portion like the Bur Oak, but without the fringe. Due to the Swamp White Oak parentage, the acorns have less tannins and a sweeter taste. They are a food source for various wildlife including birds, squirrels, and deer.
American Sycamore Quick Facts
Schuettes Oak Quick Facts
Toxicity: when injested, can be toxic for many animals