Sycamore Maple
Acer pseudoplatanus · Deciduous Broadleaf / Hardwood
Plant Family
Sapindaceae (Soapberry family)
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Standard species
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 7. Highly adaptable to coastal conditions and wind.
About This Tree
A large, vigorous tree with a broad, rounded, spreading canopy and dense foliage. It features large, dark green leathery leaves and distinctive hanging clusters of winged seeds (samaras). It is known for its ability to withstand salt spray and harsh winds.
Leaf Characteristics
Leaves are simple, opposite, and 5-lobed (palmate). They are 4-6 inches across, thick, and leathery. Margins are coarsely serrated. Color is dark green above and often have a pale or grayish-green underside. Fall color is generally a muted yellowish-brown.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth and silver-gray when young, becoming dark gray and developing irregular, square-ish scales or plates that peel away to reveal orange-brown inner bark, similar to a plane tree (Platanus).
Growing Information
Origin Region
Central and Southern Europe and Western Asia; widely naturalized in North America and Oceania.
Growing Season
Leafs out in late spring; flowers in April to May; samaras ripen in late summer and autumn; enters dormancy in November after late-season leaf drop.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Needs moderate watering during establishment but is quite drought-tolerant once mature. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil but is highly adaptable to various pH levels.
Mature Size
Mature height of 40-60 feet (sometimes up to 100 feet in the wild) with a spread of 40-60 feet. Features a fast growth rate during youth and a lifespan of 100-200 years.
Special Characteristics
High tolerance for salt spray and wind, making it ideal for coastal planting. Known as an invasive species in some parts of North America due to prolific seeding. Timber is highly valued for furniture, flooring, and musical instruments.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nectar for bees and other pollinators in early spring. The winged seeds (samaras) are eaten by small mammals and birds. Its dense canopy provides excellent nesting sites for birds; however, it can outcompete native species in North American forests.