Sycamore

Acer pseudoplatanus

Sycamore is a large maple with five-lobed leaves and winged seeds (samaras). It is widely naturalized across Europe and thrives in a range of climates. Also known as Sycamore maple, Planetree maple.

How to identify a Sycamore leaf

Leaves are 10–25 cm wide with five coarse, toothed lobes and long reddish leaf stalks.

Where it grows

Sycamore is native to Central and southern Europe and western Asia.

Seasonal interest

Foliage typically turns yellow-brown in autumn before paired winged seeds fall.

Safety note: Seeds can be toxic to horses if consumed in quantity (atypical myopathy risk).

Can a photo identify this tree?

A photo can provide a useful starting point, especially when the leaf is sharp and well lit. For a reliable identification, compare the result with the leaf edge, lobe pattern, vein structure, bark, buds, fruit, and the tree's location.