Native to Europe but naturalised in Britain, the Sycamore is a familiar sight in both town and countryside. A large fast-growing tree, it does well in even the most exposed and difficult situations and copes with urban pollution better than any other tree. In very exposed areas it is often planted as a shelter belt to allow more vulnerable species to become established. With great age, it takes on a dignified, impressive appearance.

Site and soil

Sycamore will grow well on even the poorest of soils. It tolerates coastal winds, town pollution, shade and very low temperatures.

Height and spread

Below are the approximate stages of growth, assuming sited in suitable conditions for this species;

After 10 years: 10m x 5m 
After 20 years 15m x 8m

Leaf and bark

The leaves are palmate, 3 or 5 lobed with prominent veins and red leaf stems; young leaves are bronze, later becoming dark green. The bark is smooth and grey, but with age it breaks into plates revealing the paler buff and pink shades beneath, rather reminiscent of a plane tree.

Flower, seed and fruit

The greenish flowers open in April in drooping spikes and are followed by hanging winged fruits which often have reddish tints in summer.

Uses

Woodland, shelter belts, coppicing. The wood is very smooth and white and has traditionally been used for making violins, spoons, furniture and veneers.

Wildlife

The flowers provide early pollen for bumblebees, and a number of moths and other insects depend on the tree. Sycamore provides shelter and nesting and roosting sites where few other trees can survive.