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Description
Platanus Wrightii, commonly known as the Arizona Sycamore, is a large deciduous tree that is native to Arizona. It belongs to the Platanaceae family and is closely related to the American Sycamore. This tree species can grow up to 100 feet tall and has a spread of up to 50 feet. Its bark is smooth when young, but as it ages, it becomes mottled with gray, brown, and white patches. The Arizona Sycamore produces greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and its fruits are round clusters of achenes that ripen in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Proteales |
| Family | Platanaceae |
| Genus | Platanus |
Appearance
The Arizona Sycamore has a broad, spreading crown with thick branches that are covered in large, palmate leaves. Its leaves are a bright green color in the summer and turn a golden-yellow in the fall before dropping off for the winter. The bark of the Arizona Sycamore is one of its most distinctive features. It starts off as a smooth, cream-colored surface, but as the tree ages, it becomes mottled with gray, brown, and white patches that give it a camouflage-like appearance. The Arizona Sycamore produces greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and its fruits are round clusters of achenes that ripen in the fall.
Care Guide
Water: The Arizona Sycamore needs regular watering during the first few years of growth to establish its roots. After that, it can tolerate periods of drought, but it prefers moist soil. It is important to water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.Fertilization: Fertilizing the Arizona Sycamore is not necessary, but if you choose to do so, use a slow-release fertilizer in the early spring.Soil: The Arizona Sycamore prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soil.Sunlight: The Arizona Sycamore prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Platanus Wrightii is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Arizona Sycamore is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to anthracnose, a fungal disease that causes leaf spots and twig dieback. To prevent this, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the tree. Insects that can infest the Arizona Sycamore include borers, leaf miners, and scale insects. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticides can help prevent infestations.
Habitat
The Arizona Sycamore is native to Arizona and is commonly found along streams, in canyons, and on rocky slopes. It is a popular tree for landscaping due to its attractive bark and foliage.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Arizona Sycamore tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, Platanus Wrightii is hardy in USDA zones 7-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures.Q: How often should I water my Arizona Sycamore?
A: Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering.Q: What is the best time of year to fertilize my Arizona Sycamore?
A: Fertilize in the early spring before new growth appears.Q: How can I prevent anthracnose on my Arizona Sycamore?
A: Avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the tree.
Related Plants
- American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis)
- London Planetree (Platanus x acerifolia)
- Oriental Planetree (Platanus orientalis)
References
- “Platanus wrightii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h520.
- “Arizona Sycamore (Platanus wrightii).” Arizona Native Plant Society, www.aznps.com/arizona-sycamore.
- “Platanus wrightii.” University of Arizona Campus Arboretum, campusarboretum.arizona.edu/plants/platanus-wrightii.
