Sycamore maple

Profile

Family

Aceraceae

Habit

Tree

Height

31.5 m

Spread

16 m

Growth

very fast

Lifespan

500 years

First yield

after 20 years

Hardiness

zone 5–7

Shade tolerance

partial shade

Soil

Sand, Silt, Loam, Clay

Soil moisture

semi-dry – very moist

pH

5 – 8

Synonyms

Bergahorn

Flowering & harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Medicinal: Bark Wash for Skin and Eye Problems The bark possesses astringent qualities that can aid in addressing skin and eye concerns. Washing the bark is advised to make use of its therapeutic attributes.

Other uses: Bedding sheets and preservation sheets are utilized to keep food fresh by wrapping items like apples and potatoes. Regularly replacing the sheets is crucial to prevent mold growth and preserve food quality.

Growing

Easy to grow, this tree thrives in moist, well-drained soil and sunny locations, but can also adapt to various conditions, including poor soil and some shade. It can even flourish in heavy clay soil. While it may experience chlorosis due to iron deficiency in alkaline soil, maples are generally not picky about soil pH. They do not do well in wet soil and prefer cooler climates. Resilient to wind, they can withstand maritime conditions, although they may require pruning in very exposed areas. This tree is quite competitive, spreading through self-seeding and inhibiting the growth of nearby plants. Known for its rapid growth, it is often among the first trees to populate open areas. While it can outcompete native trees initially, studies show that it usually does not dominate woodlands in the long run. It is recommended for planting in deciduous forests, especially in windy regions. The tree is susceptible to sooty bark disease, typically appearing after hot summers, but it is not usually fatal. There are numerous cultivated varieties selected for their decorative qualities. It takes 25 years for these trees to bear fruit from seed.

Propagation

Seeds should be sown immediately after reaching maturity in a cool environment, as they typically sprout in the following spring. Prior to soaking, store the seeds for a day, then stratify them at temperatures between 1-8°C for 2-4 months. Germination may be slow, and it's crucial to maintain seed humidity above 35%. Harvesting seeds while still "green" and planting them right away can lead to germination in late winter. Early harvesting may result in weak or no plant growth. Transplant seedlings into individual pots once they reach sufficient size, around 20 cm tall, before transferring them to their permanent spot. Taking cuttings from young shoots in June or July is a successful method for most species within this genus. Cut the cuttings to include 2-3 leaf pairs and a pair of buds at the base. Enhance rooting by removing a thin strip of bark at the base and consider using a rooting hormone. Rooted cuttings should display new growth in summer before repotting to increase chances of surviving winter. For cultivars, grafting onto species rootstocks is possible, with the best time for grafting being September, not February.

Notable

Special features: Super chop & drop mulch & soil builder; syrup min. 60% sugar; sugar maple (Acer saccharum) needs a more continental climate, grows slowly, is 3x richer in sugar, has more culinary and medicinal uses; field maple (Acer campestre) leaves + leaf stalks + sauerkraut; sycamore is popular as a deer grazing material, but poisonous to horses;

Origin & habitat

Forest, bushes Located deep within the forest, away from the noise of urban life, is a special place known as Vorwald. Here, tall trees and abundant vegetation form a serene haven for visitors. The air carries the pleasant aroma of wildflowers, while the melodious chirping of birds echoes throughout. Strolling along the meandering paths, you might chance upon a delightful small house nestled amidst the trees. This is Hecken, a snug hideaway where one can unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings. Leave behind the commotion of the external world and submerge yourself in the peace of Vorwald and Hecken.

Dry to moist fertile forests, riverbanks, and stone slopes, occasionally on calcareous soils.

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