Location: Meadows, Woodland Trail, Four Rounds

The American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) is one of the tallest trees found in eastern North America and has a special place in the Glenstone story. The specimen, the largest on the site, was moved in 2009 to make way for the planned Glenstone expansion, and now welcomes visitors soon after they cross over the arrival bridge. Its pruning and placement were conceived to frame visitors’ first view of the Pavilions. This tree has become an important touchstone for the institution, beloved by staff and a reminder of Glenstone’s commitment to preserving the landscape. The sycamore’s wide branches bud in spring with leaves measuring four to eight inches in diameter; in full flower, the sycamore exceeds 75 feet in width.

–Eric Love, from the Glenstone Field Guide