Plant · GBIF taxon 8268789
western sycamore
Platanus racemosaAlso known as California Sycamore, California Plane Tree
Western sycamore is a massive riparian tree with mottled bark that flakes into cream, tan, and gray patches. Its broad maple-like leaves and spherical flower clusters hang from zigzagging stalks.
riparian treemottled barkbroad canopy
Licensed reference(c) Eugene Zelenko, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Produces energy through photosynthesis and draws groundwater with a broad riparian root system
Predators
- boring beetles
- leaf-feeding insects
- grazing mammals
ThreatsGroundwater decline, channel alteration, severe drought, wildfire, and root-zone disturbance
HabitatsStreambanks, canyons, floodplains, springs, and seasonally wet valleys
Life spanA long-lived tree that can persist for several centuries
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyPlatanaceae
- SpeciesPlatanus racemosa
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Old limbs may drop without warning; remain clear of damaged crowns.
Responsible observation
- Identify: Look for patchwork pale bark and broad leaves with three to five lobes.
- Protect: Keep vehicles and heavy foot traffic away from exposed roots.
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