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Sycamore: Acer Pseudoplatanua .

It is the tallest and commonest member of the maple family. It was introduced from Europe in the Middle Ages. It can survive in the bleakest conditions and is frequently found in hedges. It spreads vigorously on waste ground by winged fruits which twirls through the air like helicopter blades in October. Greenish-yellow flowers appear in May or June with the leaves. The leaf stalk is tinged red and the large dark green leathery leaves have regular teeth. They are set in opposite pairs and the branches spread out evenly.

Sycamore produce fruit profusely so it is regarded as a pernicious weed in the natural woodland. Its wood is put to many uses as it can be turned and its distinction is in musical instruments of most 'note' is O'Carolan's harp in the national museum made entirely of sycamore.

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