Sycamore (Plantanus occidentalis)

 The American sycamore of the eastern United States attains a greater diameter than any other broadleaf tree.  In the original forests, its diameter could reach 3.5 m. (12 ft.).  Because it was so large and often hollow, pioneers used the trunk for grain storage by cutting it into a large cylinder and attaching a bottom.

 The tree has broad, slightly lobed leaves and produces a globular fruit. Sycamore balls, the dried seed pods, were often used by settlers as Christmas tree ornaments.

 It is a moderately strong wood but is not considered valuable as lumber, yet its brown wood finds limited use in furniture.