Acer pseudoplatanus aka Sycamore Maple

Taxonomy

Genus Acer Family Sapindaceae Order Sapindales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Acer pseudoplatanus, commonly known as sycamore in the UK and sycamore maple in the US, is a deciduous, broad-leaved tree in the soapberry and lychee family Sapindaceae. It is tolerant of wind and coastal exposure and can grow up to 35 m (115 ft) tall with a broad, rounded crown. The bark is smooth when young and flakes in irregular patches as it matures. The large palmate leaves have five radiating lobes, and the greenish-yellow flowers hang in dangling panicles, producing copious amounts of pollen and nectar attractive to insects. The winged samaras germinate freely in the spring. Native to Central Europe and Western Asia, the sycamore establishes itself easily from seed and was introduced to the UK by 1500, where it is now naturalized, along with other parts of Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand, where it can become an invasive species. In its native range, the sycamore is associated with a biodiverse range of invertebrates and fungi, but these are not always present in areas to which it has been introduced. Sycamore maple is a rare houseplant that is not challenging to grow and prefers regular watering and long-lasting, direct light within a foot of a window. It does best in soil that retains moisture and typically doesn't need added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. The sycamore produces a hard-wearing, creamy-white close-grained timber used for musical instruments, furniture, joinery, wood flooring, and kitchen utensils, and it also makes good firewood. The rising sap in spring has been used to extract sugar and make alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Bees collecting the nectar make honey. Additionally, the sycamore is sometimes planted in urban areas for its amenity value.

Common names

Sycamore Maple, Sycamore, Great Maple, Plane

How to care for Sycamore Maple

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Sycamore Maple is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Sycamore Maple should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

If you're planting Sycamore Maple, you need to make sure you use a potting soil that can retain moisture. While the soil should still be able to drain well, it should contain plenty of organic matter like coco coir or sphagnum moss to help it stay moist and nourish the roots of your plants. This is especially important since Great Maple is especially sensitive to dry soil. You can also add other amendments, such as compost, to help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients to your plants. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. With the right soil and proper care, your Sycamore Maple will thrive!

Lighting

Sycamore Maple requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Plane will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The Sycamore Maple is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Sycamore Maple’s native range is Europe. Extensively naturalized in Britain[17].

More info:
Wikipedia

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