Acer pseudoplatanus (Sycamore)

Common Name: Sycamore

Acer pseudoplatanus (Sycamore) is a tall tree of parklands, hedgerows and woodlands. It was introduced into the UK from Europe sometime in the 15th or 16th century, and has become naturalised since, as well as being widely planted. Due to its winged seeds (known as 'helicopters'), which are produced in profusion in mature trees, and its adaptability, it is able to colonise all kinds of habitats, including waste ground.

A tall, domed tree of the maple family, its five-lobed leaves have toothed margins and characteristic red stalks. Its flowers are small, green and hang in spikes, turning to distinctive winged fruits, known as 'samaras'. Widespread across the UK.

In the photograph above you can see the familiar black spots that appear every year on Sycamore leaves. Tar spot is a leaf spot disease caused by the fungus Rhytisma acerinum. It is seen most commonly on sycamore, but can also affect a number of other Acer species. The spots are unsightly, and the disease can cause slightly premature leaf fall. It has no long-term effect on the vigour of affected trees, however.

https://www.uknature.co.uk is a website dedicated to showing the immense diversity of UK nature and wildlife. Our vast range of habitats, from lowland arable to snow covered mountains, from storm-ravaged coastlines to peaceful inland freshwater lakes and rivers, from dry, sandy heaths to deciduous and coniferous forests, all these habitats contribute to the abundance of UK nature. We have wild birds in huge numbers either residing or visiting our shores (597 recorded species as at July 2013) and we must also not forget the humble back garden with its grass lawns, flower beds filled with nectar rich flowers, shrubs and trees, all designed to attract huge numbers of insects such as bees, moths, butterflies and hoverflies; and finally the small ponds which provide safe havens for frogs, toads, newts and even slow worms and grass snakes. www.uknature.co.uk is the showcase for my personal passion, photographing uknature in all its glory. I sincerely hope you all enjoy the fruits of my labours.