California Sycamore

California sycamores are seriously cool trees! They're known for their incredibly mottled bark – a mix of creamy white, tan, and brown patches that peel off in large flakes, almost like giant jigsaw puzzle pieces. This camouflage helps them blend into their surroundings and protects them from sun damage. They can grow HUGE, reaching heights of up to 100 feet tall and boasting a wide, spreading canopy! These giants are one of the largest deciduous trees (meaning they lose their leaves in the fall) in western North America.

These majestic trees love to live near water, often found along streams, rivers, and canyons in California and parts of other western states. They thrive in riparian habitats, meaning areas close to water sources. Their deep root systems help prevent soil erosion, keeping the land stable and healthy. They're also super important for wildlife! Their leaves provide food for insects, which then feed birds and other animals. Squirrels and other critters build nests in their branches, and birds use them for shelter.

Did you know California sycamores can live for hundreds of years? Some are even thought to be over a thousand years old! Their large leaves, sometimes up to 10 inches across, turn a beautiful golden yellow in the fall before dropping. And another fun fact: they're actually related to fig trees! That means they have tiny, ball-shaped fruits that grow after the leaves fall. They're not delicious for us, but birds and other animals enjoy them.