Bareroot Acer pseudoplatanus (Sycamore)

A robust deciduous tree with large, hand shaped leaves that emerge with a reddish tint before maturing to deep green, then turning vibrant yellow in autumn. The distinctive flaky bark reveals patches of orange brown beneath, creating striking winter interest. Reaching impressive proportions with a broad, domed crown, it provides excellent shade while withstanding exposed coastal conditions better than many maples. The hanging clusters of winged seeds add movement and visual appeal from summer through winter. Particularly resilient in urban environments, it tolerates pollution and a range of soil types, though it thrives best in moist but well drained sites. The fast growth rate makes it ideal for creating quick screening or establishing woodland areas.

Family of Trees: Sapindaceae

Habit: Deciduous Tree, Broad Crown

Growth Rate: 40-80 cm/year

Optimal Temperature: 5-25°C, hardy to -25°C

Harmful if Eaten?: Toxic (seeds and young leaves)

Flowers or Berries: Green-Yellow Flowers, Winged Samaras

Hardiness: H6 (Very Hardy)

Hardiness ratings

All ratings refer to the UK growing conditions unless otherwise stated. Minimum temperature ranges (in degrees C) are shown in brackets

○ H1a: under glass all year (>15C)
○ H1b: can be grown outside in the summer (10 - 15)
○ H1c: can be grown outside in the summer (5 - 10)
○ H2: tolerant of low temperatures, but not surviving being frozen (1 to 5)
○ H3: hardy in coastal and relatively mild parts of the UK (-5 to 1)
○ H4: hardy through most of the UK (-10 to -5)
○ H5: hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters (-15 to -10)
○ H6: hardy in all of UK and northern Europe (-20 to -15)
○ H7: hardy in the severest European continental climates (< -20)