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.

_______________________

If you would like to receive my daily blog posts by email, sign up here!