Buttonball
Platanus occidentalis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
600"–1200" H × 300"–600" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states
Pollinators
beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
American sycamore is a massive native shade tree that can reach 50-100 feet tall with distinctive mottled bark that peels to reveal white, tan, and gray patches. It produces round seed balls and large maple-like leaves that turn yellow-brown in fall. This tree needs plenty of space and is best suited for large properties.
In an HOA neighborhood
Buttonball takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely large size inappropriate for most residential lots
- Drops large amounts of leaves, bark, and seed balls creating maintenance issues
- Shallow root system can damage sidewalks and foundations
Wildlife value
Supports beetles and flies during its spring bloom period. The large size and longevity make it valuable habitat for birds and other wildlife.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Buttonball fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.