Acer pseudoplatanus

Tree Information

Specialities

Tolerances

Wet Soil: High

Dry Soil: Medium

Lime: High

Acer pseudoplatanus, commonly known as the Sycamore tree, is one of the most recognisable and resilient trees across the United Kingdom. Found in hedgerows, rural landscapes, and urban parks, the Sycamore has become the biodiverse backbone of the British countryside. This hardy deciduous tree can reach heights of up to 25 metres, forming a broad, rounded canopy that offers shade, shelter, and vital habitats for native wildlife.

A symbol of endurance and natural beauty, the solitary Sycamore at the heart of Sycamore Gap stood proudly for over 300 years, capturing the imagination of generations and becoming an emblem of Britain’s deep connection to its trees and landscapes.

Renowned for its adaptability and strength, Acer pseudoplatanus thrives in a wide range of soil types and climates. It performs exceptionally well in coastal areas, withstanding salt-laden winds and exposure, making it an ideal tree for coastal planting schemes. Its tolerance to pollution and roadside salt spreading also makes it a practical choice for urban and roadside planting. In more exposed rural settings, the Sycamore serves as a reliable shelterbelt tree, protecting other species and encouraging woodland regeneration.

As a biodiversity powerhouse, the Sycamore tree supports a remarkable variety of wildlife, including insects, lichens, and birds. In urban environments, mature Sycamores improve air quality, offer shade, and provide essential habitats, helping to enhance green infrastructure and urban resilience.

The self-seeding nature of Acer pseudoplatanus allows it to establish easily in new areas, though its vigorous regeneration should be considered in planting plans. While it brings many ecological benefits, it’s worth noting that the leaves are toxic to horses, so it should be avoided near paddocks or equestrian sites.

With its robust structure, longevity, and adaptability, Acer pseudoplatanus continues to be one of the UK’s most dependable native trees. Whether standing alone in a windswept valley or lining an urban avenue, the Sycamore tree represents resilience, heritage, and the living continuity of the British landscape.

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Size

Large

15m high x 8m wide after 25 years

Environment

Thrives in a wide variety of environments, from urban locations to coastal positions. Its remarkable adaptability allows it to tolerate pollution, salt-laden winds, and exposure, making it an excellent choice for city planting, streets, and coastal landscapes.

Canopy

The canopy of the Sycamore is wide and dense, providing generous shade and shelter. As the tree matures, the crown develops a more irregular form, contributing to its natural, characterful appearance in both rural and urban settings.

Foliage

The five-lobed green leaves of the Sycamore measure up to 15cm across and feature distinctive red stalks when young. Its Latin name, Acer pseudoplatanus, translates to “like a plane tree,” a nod to the leaf’s resemblance to those of Platanus species. During the growing season, the foliage offers a lush green canopy that turns shades of gold and amber in autumn, providing year-round interest.

Bark

The bark of the Sycamore develops a mottled grey-brown texture, often flaking with age to reveal lighter patches beneath. This gives mature trees a distinctive patterned appearance, especially striking in winter.

Flowers

In late spring, the Sycamore produces pendulous clusters of lemon-green flowers that hang gracefully in panicles. These blossoms are rich in pollen and nectar, attracting bees, hoverflies, and other pollinators, making the tree an excellent wildlife resource.

Fruit

Following flowering, the tree forms winged seed pairs (samaras), which mature to a pinkish-brown hue before being carried away by the wind. These distinctive “helicopter seeds” aid in natural regeneration and are a familiar sight in late summer and autumn.

Resilience

Acer pseudoplatanus is an exceptionally hardy tree, thriving in most soil types, including poor or dry conditions. It is tolerant of coastal exposure, wind, pollution, and cold, though it prefers to avoid heavily waterlogged clay soils.

Wildlife

A biodiversity champion, the Sycamore supports a wide array of insects, birds, and lichens. Its nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators, while its dense canopy offers shelter and nesting opportunities for small birds and mammals. In both rural and urban environments, it plays a key role in sustaining local ecosystems.

FAQs

Is the Sycamore native to the UK?

While Acer pseudoplatanus is native to continental Europe, it has been naturalised in the UK for many centuries and is now considered an integral part of the British landscape. Its widespread presence makes it a familiar and much-loved tree across the country.

What makes the Acer pseudoplatanus tree good for urban planting?

The Sycamore tree is exceptionally tolerant of pollution, compacted soils, and salt exposure, making it ideal for urban and roadside planting. It also provides valuable shade, air purification, and habitat for wildlife, improving the overall health of city environments.

What type of soil does Acer pseudoplatanus prefer?

Sycamores are extremely hardy and adaptable, growing well in most soil types, including chalky, sandy, and loamy soils. However, they perform best in moist but well-drained conditions and should be avoided in heavily waterlogged clay.

What do Sycamore leaves look like?

The Sycamore has five-lobed green leaves measuring up to 15cm across, often with red stalks on new growth. The leaves turn golden in autumn, adding vibrant seasonal colour. The name pseudoplatanus means “like a plane tree,” reflecting its similar leaf shape.