Name: Platanus mexicana (Mexican Sycamore)
Average Landscape Size: 50–70 ft. tall × 30–50 ft. wide; upright with a broad, spreading canopy.
Sun Requirements: Full sun (essential for optimal growth and leaf color).
Water Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture while establishing but becomes impressively drought-tolerant once its root system is deep.
Deer Resistance: High
Cold Hardiness: USDA Zones 7–10; highly heat-tolerant and perfectly adapted to Houston’s climate.
Fertilization & Pruning: Use a balanced tree fertilizer in early spring. Pruning is minimal—simply remove any lower branches to provide clearance for walking or "limbing up" to showcase the beautiful peeling bark.
Detailed Description: If you are looking for a "statement tree" that grows like a rocket, the Mexican Sycamore is the clear winner. This tree is a favorite among Houston homeowners because it is significantly more resistant to bacterial leaf scorch than the traditional American Sycamore. The real show begins when the wind blows; the large, maple-like leaves have a soft, silvery-white underside that creates a beautiful shimmering effect in the breeze.
Beyond the foliage, the bark is a true work of art. As the tree matures, the outer bark peels away in irregular patches to reveal a smooth, creamy-white interior that provides incredible visual interest even in the winter. It’s a tough, adaptable tree that isn't picky about our heavy clay or alkaline soils. Because of its size and fast growth, it’s the perfect choice for quickly shading a large backyard or cooling a south-facing side of your home.
Name: Platanus mexicana (Mexican Sycamore)
Average Landscape Size: 50–70 ft. tall × 30–50 ft. wide; upright with a broad, spreading canopy.
Sun Requirements: Full sun (essential for optimal growth and leaf color).
Water Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture while establishing but becomes impressively drought-tolerant once its root system is deep.
Deer Resistance: High
Cold Hardiness: USDA Zones 7–10; highly heat-tolerant and perfectly adapted to Houston’s climate.
Fertilization & Pruning: Use a balanced tree fertilizer in early spring. Pruning is minimal—simply remove any lower branches to provide clearance for walking or "limbing up" to showcase the beautiful peeling bark.
Detailed Description: If you are looking for a "statement tree" that grows like a rocket, the Mexican Sycamore is the clear winner. This tree is a favorite among Houston homeowners because it is significantly more resistant to bacterial leaf scorch than the traditional American Sycamore. The real show begins when the wind blows; the large, maple-like leaves have a soft, silvery-white underside that creates a beautiful shimmering effect in the breeze.
Beyond the foliage, the bark is a true work of art. As the tree matures, the outer bark peels away in irregular patches to reveal a smooth, creamy-white interior that provides incredible visual interest even in the winter. It’s a tough, adaptable tree that isn't picky about our heavy clay or alkaline soils. Because of its size and fast growth, it’s the perfect choice for quickly shading a large backyard or cooling a south-facing side of your home.