Golden Willow vs American Sycamore - TreeTime.ca

Golden Willow vs American Sycamore

Platanus occidentalis

Salix alba vitellina

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American Sycamore
Golden Willow

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.

Golden Willow is an attractive accent tree that's perfectly suited for those moist or wet areas on your property.

This fast growing tree has glossy narrow leaves that turn gold in fall, furrowed brown bark and showy gold branches that especially stand out in the winter.

Golden Willow is commonly used for windbreaks, shelterbelts, and ornamental planting. In addition to looking great, Golden Willow attracts a variety of birds and mammals with its twigs and buds.

All willow are important to native pollinators each spring as they have higher amounts of pollen and nectar early each growing season when other food sources are scarce.

Note: do not plant near buildings or buried services.

American Sycamore Quick Facts

Golden Willow Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 2a
Height: 23 m (75 ft)
Height: 15 m (49 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: none
Suckering: medium


Fall colour: golden yellow
Bark: bright yellow
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


In row spacing: 2.4 - 3 m (8 - 10 ft)
Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)
Native to: ON
Other Names: basket willow, blue willow, cricket bat willow, duck willow, velvet osier, white osier, white willow