Trees of Kankakee

The American Sycamore

Whether you know this tree by name or not, you're sure to have noticed it.

These North American natives grow in abundance along the Kankakee river, with their trunks a rough kaleidoscope of brown, grey, green, and white, and their tall smooth snow-like branches reaching toward the sky.  They have a striking ghostly presence amongst the other browns and greens of the forest, commanding our attention and awe.

One look and it is easy to see why the American Sycamore tree is a favorite for many, with its distinguished mottled bark of various textures, large stature, and big maple-like leafed canopy providing an abundance of shelter and shade in the summer months. It is a colorful and beautiful sight!

The American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), also known as the American Planetree, Buttonwood, or Water Beech, is a common forest inhabitant in Central and Eastern North America. They do especially well in riparian areas (like river banks) as water-lovers, where their expansive root systems provide great support and erosion control. They can grow extremely quickly, up to 6 feet a year, and to grand statures at well over 100 feet once mature. They are also very long-lived if the environment suits them well, often aging over 200 years old, with some even reaching up to 600 years old.

Their flowers are monoecious (unisexual flowers on the same tree) and are primarily wind pollinated, even though the trees themselves provide a home to many insects, birds, and mammals. Their fruit matures into burr-like balls that are so light they can float on water and be easily carried by the wind. Birds and mammals also help in the dispersal of their seeds while consuming the fruit. Another fun fact - these trees typically will not produce viable seed until they are 25-50 years old, and then only every 2-3 years.

The American Sycamore makes a statement even without knowing much about it. Hopefully this post gave you an even deeper admiration for these stunning trees.

Be sure to keep an eye out and give them a “hello” on your next Kankakee river stroll.

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