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Platanus occidentalis (Sycamore, Mexican Hybrid)
Mexican Sycamore at a San Antonio Park

Sycamore, Mexican Hybrid

Mexican Plane Tree

Platanus occidentalis 'Mexicana x hybrid'

Hybrid Mexican Sycamore is derived from Mexican Sycamore parentage but reflects years of open pollination and natural crossing. While it may not display the extreme white bark or consistently oversized foliage of a true Mexican Sycamore, many individuals still show key traits such as large leaves, a lighter fuzzy underside, and partial exfoliating bark. These trees retain much of the heat and drought tolerance that make Mexican Sycamore superior to American Sycamore for Texas landscapes.


In the Texas landscape, this hybrid performs well across Central and South Texas, particularly in areas with alkaline soils and summer heat. It is far better adapted than American Sycamore, which tends to struggle with disease, heat stress, and poor structure in this region. This tree tolerates clay soils, periodic flooding, and short droughts once established, making it suitable for creek banks, large lawns, parks, and rural properties. It prefers full sun but will tolerate light afternoon shade, especially during establishment.


This is a large shade tree, typically reaching 60–80 feet tall and 40–60 feet wide at maturity. Space trees 35–45 feet apart when planting in groups. Leaves drop in fall, and bark exfoliation increases with age. The tree is not considered toxic and is generally deer tolerant once past the sapling stage. Compared to American Sycamore, this hybrid shows improved resistance to foliar diseases and better long-term performance in Central Texas conditions.

Large Shade Tree
Heat Tolerant
Alkaline Soil Friendly
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Height:

60-80 Feet

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Spread:

40-60 Feet

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Spacing:

35-45 feet


USDA Hardiness Zone 5a

Available Sizes:

Item Description
SYC-MEX-30 #030 SYCAMORE, MEXICAN
SYC-MEX-95 #095 SYCAMORE, MEXICAN
SYC-MEX-15 #015 SYCAMORE, MEXICAN

Characteristics & Attributes

Deer Tolerance
• High
Exposure
• Full Sun
Habit
• Deciduous
Soil pH Preference
• Alkaline
Water Needs
• Low