California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa)
This is a deciduous tree that quickly grows to a height of 40 – 60 feet. The main trunk has a tendency to develop a spreading or leaning secondary trunk. They have attractive smooth, grey peeling bark and deeply lobed yellowish-green leaves. They are subject to Mistletoe (Phoradendron tomentsoum) a parasitic plant that can be seen and treated most effectively during the tree’s dormant season. They tolerate high heat and windy conditions, but will suffer early leaf drop after a wet spring. They typically require pruning on a 4-year cycle and should be pruned during the winter after they have dropped all their leaves.
© Walter Warriner Consulting Arborist
