Sycamore Maple

Common Names Parts Usually Used Plant(s) & Culture Where Found Medicinal Properties

Legends, Myths and Stories Uses

Common Names

Sycamore

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Parts Usually Used

Bark

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Description of Plant(s) and Culture

Sycamore maple is a large deciduous tree; it grows as high as 100 feet, and its spreading branches bear opposite, 5 lobed, coarsely crenate-serrate leaves which resemble those of the sycamore tree. The leaves are dark green on top, pale and whitish beneath. The yellowish-green flowers grow in hanging racemes, producing eventually the winged fruit characteristic of the maples.

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Where Found

Found in mountainous and upland areas of Europe and western Asia and cultivated to some extent in the United States.

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Medicinal Properties

Astringent, vulnerary

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Legends, Myths and Stories

This tree has characteristics of the sycamore but it is a maple tree. Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) grows to 150 feet with bark that is mottled, multi-colored, and peeling. Fruits are globular.

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Uses

The bark has mild astringent properties and has been used to make a wash for skin problems and an eyewash for sore eyes. The inner bark of the tree, containing the sweet sap, can be used as dressing for wounds.

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