Sycamore Maple
Acer pseudoplatanus
The Sycamore Maple is a large deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 40 meters and live for approximately 500 years. It is characterized by its distinctive five-lobed leaves and a bark that peels off in scales as the tree matures. As a mid-shade tree, it prefers cool, moist locations and nutrient-rich, deep soils.
Details
Oxygen production
High, due to large leaf surface area and rapid growth rate in youth.
Habitat function
Nesting site for birds; habitat for epiphytes; food source for insect larvae and seed eaters.
Nutrient uptake
High demand for calcium and nitrogen; the easily decomposable litter improves soil quality.
Food source for
Honeybees, wild bees, and hoverflies (nectar/pollen); caterpillars of the Sycamore moth; birds and small mammals (seeds).
Human use
Use of wood in furniture making, interior finishing, and musical instrument making (especially curly maple for violin backs).
Ecology
Ecological role
Important mixed tree species in mountain and ravine forests; pioneer species on scree slopes; provides habitat for specialized lichens and mosses.
Natural predators
Roe and red deer (browsing on saplings), various insect larvae (e.g., Acronicta aceris).
Competitor species
European beech (Fagus sylvatica) on optimal sites; European ash (Fraxinus excelsior) in moist locations.
Ecosystem service
Production of high-quality hardwood; erosion control on slopes; important nectar source for insects; carbon sequestration.
Threats
Drought stress due to climate change, sooty bark disease (Cryptostroma corticale), excessive browsing by game.
Scientific profile
Profile
Protection & threats
Main threats
Increasing summer drought and heat (climate change), spread of sooty bark disease, silvicultural preference for other species.