Vuorivaahtera – Acer pseudoplatanus

Sycamore is a deciduous tree in the genus of maples (Acer). It is a monoecious broadleaf tree, which has no root sprouts. It is native to and the most common type of maple in Europe. In Central Europe it grows into a bulky tree with broad, round crown. Sycamore is a popular ornamental tree in European cities and thus, it has been spread to many new areas as an ornamental plant as well. Once settled in a new area, it will continue to spread to the surrounding area with the help of its winged seeds. So far, sycamore is found only in a few places in Finland. However, especially in Southern Finland, it has strong spreading potential, because the climate there is suitable for it and it produces plenty of seedlings. It competes effectively with other trees and shrubs and can displace the original species. As a preventive measure, sycamore is classified as a nationally invasive alien species.