October 17, 2025
As trees grow in girth, somehow their bark must accommodate that growth. In the case of American Sycamores (Platanus occidentalis) as the trunk expands, the surface of its deep red-brown bark breaks into plate-like scales. These separate into thin but good sized plates which peel off.
This leaves the upper reaches of the tree a much lighter color. Creating tall, marble trees, in my mind anyway. They’re often seen growing along streams. Outlining those streams with stately markers.
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2 responses to “Peely Bark”
Love that tree.
Hi Buddy, great to hear from you! I totally agree about the Sycamore. I have fond memories, from long ago, of being at my Grandparents’ house in Lansdale, Pa. for the annual family Christmas gathering. Some of my cousins and I went for a walk around the block which is lined with Sycamore trees. Of course we noticed the huge pieces of peeling bark falling off the trees, so we gathered those pieces up and put them into a nearby post office mail box. Crazy kids!
So very glad you read my posts —
Hoping you and Sue are enjoying this beautiful autumn!
Bren