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Identifying Sycamore
Sycamore is fast growing and regarded by some as a ‘weed’. It is not a native tree but was introduced from central and south east Europe. It is tolerant of ‘sea spray’ and may be planted near the coast. Its heavy leaf fall can mean that the ground flora underneath the tree is limited.
Leaf
Simple but large leaves. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs around the twigs/stem. 5 distinct lobes to the leaves, 5 veins radiate from the leaf base into the lobes. There is a somewhat ragged edge to the leaf, lots of ‘rounded’ teeth. On the lower surface of the leaf, there are some hairs.
Buds, Bark and Stem
In younger trees, the bark is smooth and may be a pinkish-grey colour, but as the tree ages it becomes grey and scaly/flaky.
Flowers and Fruits
The flowers appear at the same time as the leaves. They are yellow/green and there are separate clusters of male and female flowers; they are carried on drooping ‘tails’ or tassels. When fertilised, they form winged seeds. These occur in pairs and form a helicopter structure that helps dispersal. The seed and its wing like structure is sometimes referred to as a ‘key’; botanically speaking it is a double samara.
Winter Twigs
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