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THE MICHIGAN BOTANIST
51
THE BIG TREES OF MICHIGAN
26. Acer pseudo-platanus L.
Sycamore Maple
Bonnie B. Harnish, Chair Elwood B. Ehrle
Lake Bluff Audubon Center Department of Biological Sciences
Manistee, MI 49960 Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Michigan's largest known Sycamore Maple stands on the grounds of the Lake
Bluff Audubon Center near Manistee, Manistee County, MI, on the western side
of the lower peninsula.
Description of the Species: The Sycamore Maple is a member of the family Aceraceae, along with the Box Elder and a number of other maples, both native and
introduced. Characteristics it shares with these include opposite, palmately lobed,
simple leaves (only the Box Elder among our maples has compound leaves) and its
distinctive paired samaras, the diagnostic fruits of maples. The Sycamore Maple
can be distinguished from other members of the genus Acer by having bright green
winter buds. Its leaves are 4-7" across, 5-lobed, and bluntly toothed (Fig. 1). The
samara wings are 1.5-2" long, diverging at right angles or less.
Acer pseudo-platanus is a native of Eurasia. It is infrequently planted across
much of eastern North America, usually in botanical gardens and arboreta and
on college and university campuses. It is rarely used as a street tree.
Location of Michigan's Big Tree: The tree is located on the grounds of the
Lake Bluff Audubon Center near Manistee, Michigan. To reach the tree, take
U.S. Route 31 north from Manistee. Where MI Route 110 turns to the left and
U.S. Route 31 continues to the northeast, turn left onto MI Route 110. The Lake
Bluff Audubon Center is on MI Route 110, 1.8 miles from its junction with U.S.
Route 31. The tree is immediately behind the headquarters building of the Lake
Bluff Audubon Center.
Description of Michigan's Big Tree: The tree is healthy, with a solid, sound
trunk. It was measured on 26 July 1995 by the authors. The girth at 4.5' above
the ground is 111" (2.8 m). The tree is 53' high (16.3 m), and has an average
crown spread of 54' (16.6 m).
INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE
If you would like to join us in extending this series of articles by visiting and
describing one or more of Michigan's Big Trees, please contact Elwood B. Ehrle
for help with locations, specifications for taking measurements, and assistance
with the manuscript. The Michigan Botanical Club encourages your involvement in this activity. Please remember to ask permission before entering private
property.
