California Sycamore
Platanus racemosa
Last reviewed: July 2026
California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa) is a deciduous native tree found along streams and canyons in California. It blooms in spring (March-May) and supports native bees and beetles.
California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag California Sycamore as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
240"–960" H × 240"–720" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
California sycamore is a majestic native tree with distinctive mottled white and tan bark and large maple-like leaves. It grows rapidly to create an impressive shade canopy with graceful spreading branches that can reach 80 feet tall and 60 feet wide. The tree displays small reddish flowers in spring followed by round, bristly seed balls.
Growing California Sycamore
Grow California Sycamore in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 240 to 960 inches tall and spread 240 to 720 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Sycamore is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: street edge, mid zone.
- Extremely large size requires appropriate space planning
- Drops significant leaf litter in fall
- Surface roots can disrupt hardscapes if planted too close
Wildlife value
Host plant for California sister butterfly.
Sycamore supports local ecosystems by providing nectar for bees and beetles during its spring bloom period. The tree also offers valuable nesting sites for birds and habitat for numerous beneficial insects.
Common questions
- Where does California Sycamore grow naturally?
- California Sycamore is native to California, typically growing along streams, in canyons, and in riparian areas throughout the state.
- When does Platanus racemosa bloom?
- California Sycamore blooms during spring months, typically from March through May, producing small ball-shaped flower clusters.
- What pollinators visit California Sycamore?
- California Sycamore attracts various native pollinators including bees and beetles that visit its spring flowers.
- How much water does California Sycamore need?
- This adaptable tree can tolerate various moisture levels from wet riparian conditions to moderate drought once established, though it prefers consistent moisture.
- Is California Sycamore toxic to dogs?
- California Sycamore is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is California Sycamore toxic to cats?
- California Sycamore is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is California Sycamore toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag California Sycamore as toxic to livestock.
- Is California Sycamore HOA-friendly?
- California Sycamore is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow California Sycamore? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz