Sycamore

Sycamore, a name originally belonging to a wild fig (Ficus Sycomorus), but now transferred to the Great Maple (Acer Pseudo-platanus), which is known in the south of Scotland as the Plane. It is a native of Central Europe, introduced into England, where it sows itself freely, in the 14th century. It forms a tree sometimes 60 feet high, with smooth, deciduous bark; pairs of large, dull-green, palmately five-lobed leaves, glaucous on their under surfaces pendulous racemes of green, polygamous flowers; and double samaras with scimitar-shaped wings. The wood is white, and is largely used in turnery, for bread-platters, etc., and for toys. It is a valuable fuel, and makes excellent charcoal. Sugar can be prepared from the spring sap, and the tree is often very valuable for its shade.