0191 2094161

Sycamore

The Sycamore is a popular urban tree that was introduced to Britain in the 17th Century.

Average height 20-35 metres tall

Deciduous, the leaves are broad and five pointed.

Latin name; Acer pseudoplatanus

Distribution; The tree was the main native tree in the ancient forests of Scotland. Prevalent across the north of the British Isles.

The tree is commonly planted in urban areas as it is resistant to wind and pollution. Salt from road salting also does not pose a problem for the tree.

Credit: NJ Pringle

Its timber is used for making violins as well as flooring and furniture.

Queen Mary of Scots is said to have nursed her husband who was suffering from Smallpox underneath a Sycamore tree in Glasgow in 1567. The tree is still alive, alas her husband was murdered in Edinburgh not long after being nursed under the tree.

The seed pods have two wings that act like helicopter blades, which helps propel them through the air as they fall, which helps distribution.

The trees can be popular with Blue Tits as they play host to many aphids, a rich food source for them.

As they are fast growing, although they help support a good diversity of woodland flora and fauna, they can come to dominate woodlands resulting in a monoculture. As part of woodland management the felled timber makes good charcoal.