The Sycamore Maple (Acer pseudoplatanus) is a large deciduous tree native to central and southern Europe and western Asia. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, it serves as a canopy layer in food forests, providing shade and habitat for understory plants and wildlife. Its dense canopy supports biodiversity and acts as a windbreak, while its robust nature allows it to thrive in various soil types, including those with urban pollution. Historically, the wood has been used for furniture and musical instruments due to its fine grain. The tree's ability to improve soil structure and prevent erosion makes it a valuable component in ecosystem restoration projects.
Growing Details
The Sycamore Maple thrives in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Before planting, incorporate organic matter such as compost to improve soil fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like comfrey and clover can enhance soil health and attract beneficial insects. Avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging. Common mistakes include overwatering young trees and neglecting to prune for shape and health. Harvest sap in early
Edible Parts
Sap
Tags
Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Building Wood Windbreak Erosion Preventing Bee Friendly Invasive Visual Appeal Easy Propagating Sweetener
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Acer pseudoplatanus</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to central and southern Europe and wes
applicable geo region: Europe and Western Asia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of September for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: The sap of the Sycamore Maple can be tapped in early spring to produce a sweet syrup, though it is less commonly used than sugar maples. The syrup can be used as a natural sweetener. Ensure proper identification and sustainable tapping practices to avoid damage to the tree.
Medicinal Rating:
(1/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, the leaves and bark have been used in folk medicine for their astringent properties. They have been applied topically to treat minor skin irritations. However, they are not widely recognized in modern herbal medicine, and caution should be exercised due to potential allergenic reactions.
health concerns: Potential allergenic reactions from sap or pollen.
other uses: The wood of the Sycamore Maple is valued for its use in furniture making and as a source of firewood. It is also used for making musical instruments due to its fine grain.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Acer pseudoplatanus
common names: Sycamore Maple; Planetree Maple; False Plane
family: Sapindaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Acer
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 10.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / -20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(5/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 200 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 35.0 m
max width: 20.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: The Sycamore Maple thrives in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Before planting, incorporate organic matter such as compost to improve soil fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like comfrey and clover can enhance soil health and attract beneficial insects. Avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging. Common mistakes include overwatering young trees and neglecting to prune for shape and health. Harvest sap in early
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids and scale insects. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for severe infestations. Tar spot and powdery mildew can be managed by ensuring good air circulation and removing infected leaves. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel pests.
Growth Timeline
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