Acer pseudoplatanus aka Sycamore Maple

Acer pseudoplatanus is known as sycamore maple or planetree maple. It belongs to the Sapindaceae family and sheds its leaves. Its native range spans Europe and the western Caucasus. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. This fast-growing tree forms a broad, rounded crown. Garden trees reach 40–60 feet [12–18.3 metres] tall. Some sources report heights near 100 feet [30.5 metres]. Reported garden spreads range from 25–60 feet [7.6–18.3 metres].

Older bark sheds scales and reveals orange patches beneath. The outer bark ranges from gray-brown to reddish brown. Smooth, stout twigs bear large buds that stay green through winter. Leaves grow in opposite pairs and have five lobes. They feel leathery and have coarse teeth along their edges. Their upper sides are dark green, with pale undersides. Veins spread from the leaf base like fingers. Fall leaves turn dull yellow or greenish brown. They offer little bright fall color.

Small yellow-green flowers hang in clusters after leaves unfold. May is the bloom month given by two sources. Male and female flowers grow on the same tree. Paired samaras follow the flowers in hanging bunches. These winged fruits ripen from late summer into early fall. Wind carries them away from the parent tree. Seeds sprout readily and can form dense stands. The tree can escape gardens and crowd out native plants. Sources report invasive behavior in parts of the northeastern United States.

Grow it in sun or partial shade with good drainage. It prefers moist soil but withstands some dry spells. Clay, loam, sand, and chalk can all support growth. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Salt spray and urban air pollution cause few problems. Cool summers suit it better than southern heat. Sources give USDA zones 4–7 and UK rating H7. It serves as a shade tree in parks and large grounds. Coastal sites and exposed windbreaks are other supported uses.

Canker is a key disease risk despite its general resilience. Tar spot, verticillium wilt, and honey fungus may also occur. Pests include aphids, borers, gall mites, caterpillars, and scale insects. Dead wood may need removal; cold winters can kill twigs. PFAF lists sap, leaves, and seedpods as edible parts. Sap can provide a drink or syrup in small yields. Developing seed wings carry a sweet coating. Leaves can serve as food wrappers. PFAF reports no known hazards, but gives no pet-specific safety evidence.