sycamore

Sycamore Platanus occidentalis
Family: Platanaceae (Sycamore)
Branching: Alternate

Sycamore has probably the most distinctive bark of any broadleaf tree. See it once and you will never forget it. When young, it's a bit less obvious, but its leaf scars and buds are still unique. Its fruits are small balls, about and inch or so wide that are sometimes found on the tree still in the winter.

Sycamore end bud

Another view of the winter twig

Closeup of the end bud. Notice how the leaf scar nearly encircles the bud...

Another view of the leaf scar and bud

The darker outer bark peels to reveal lighter bark beneath

Younger bark is lighter