Maple

Acer

Let's discover more about this sweet companion!

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Maple (in picture: Sycamore) - Acer pseudoplatanus Author:  Willow

Acer (it's a genus with more than 100 species).
Depending on the species, you can see either deciduous maples, or shrubs - and some of them may be evergreen (PFAF, Wikipedia).

This tree absorbs a huge amount of air pollution, in fact it's a common roadside tree. The syrup is used as a sweetener on many foods.
The bark is astringent and slightly anticholesterolemic. A decoction has been used to bathe sore eyes and cataracts. It's been used as a remedy for hives and muscular aches too. Tea brewed from the inner bark has been used for treating coughs and diarrhea. (PFAF, US Department of Agriculture)

In Ancient Greek mythology, maple trees were associated with Ares, the god of war, probably because of the multiple points on their leaves. They were also linked to Phobos, the god of fear, perhaps because of the blood red colouring of their leaves in autumn. The infamous Trojan Horse was also said to be made of maple wood.  But now its reputation has changed: it is a common symbol of strength and endurance and has been chosen as the national tree of Canada; Maple is also a popular choice for bonsai and it is a scared plant in Japan: you can often find it near temples. (WoodWideWeb)