Sycamore Maple
Acer pseudoplatanus
A large deciduous tree known for its broad, five-lobed leaves and distinctive peeling bark on older specimens. The leaves are dark green above and often have a lighter, slightly glaucous underside.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade; ideally 6+ hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth.
- Water
- Moderate watering needs. Young trees require regular watering to establish roots; mature trees are relatively drought-tolerant but prefer consistently moist, well-drained soil.
- Growth
- Large deciduous perennial tree with a rounded, spreading crown. Can reach heights of 60-100 feet with a similar spread. Fast growth rate when young.
Care instructions
This is a hardy, fast-growing tree that requires minimal maintenance once established. Plant in a location with plenty of room to grow. It prefers consistent moisture and full sun to partial shade.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; ideally 6+ hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth.
Watering
Moderate watering needs. Young trees require regular watering to establish roots; mature trees are relatively drought-tolerant but prefer consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Soil
Adaptable to many soil types including clay, loam, and sand. Prefers a pH of 5.5 to 8.0 and requires good drainage.
Hardiness zone
4 to 7
Growth habit
Large deciduous perennial tree with a rounded, spreading crown. Can reach heights of 60-100 feet with a similar spread. Fast growth rate when young.
Bloom season
Spring (April-May). Produces yellowish-green flowers in drooping clusters (panicles), followed by winged seeds called samaras.
Propagation
Propagated primarily through seeds (stratification required) or by softwood cuttings in early summer.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to Sooty Bark Disease (Cryptostroma corticale), aphids, and leaf spot fungus (Tar Spot). It is also considered invasive in some parts of North America and Australasia.
Similar species
Norway Maple (Acer platanoides) which has milky sap in leaf petioles, and Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) which has alternate leaves (maples are opposite).