Acer pseudoplatanus L. – Family Sapindaceae

General Characteristics

A deciduous tree reaching up to 35 meters in height, with grayish bark and a globular crown. 

The leaves are deciduous, palmately lobed with 5 lobes, pubescent along the veins, up to 15 cm long, dark green on the upper surface and grayish-green on the underside. 

The flowers are grouped in pendulous clusters, with 5 yellowish petals. 

The fruits are yellowish samaras, 5 cm long, with wings diverging at a 90° angle.

USES

The wood is valuable and used in cabinetry for furniture and paneling.

CURIOSITIES

Fermented sap is used to make an alcoholic beverage.

ORIGIN AND DISTRIBUTION

A wild species in southern and central Europe. 

In Italy, it is present in all regions up to an altitude of 2000 meters, except for Sardinia.