Sycamore is a tall tree of parklands, hedgerows and woods. It was introduced into the UK from Europe sometime in the 15th or 16th century and has become naturalised since then, as well as being widely planted. Due to its winged seeds (well known as ‘helicopters’ to many children) that are produced in profusion in mature trees, and its adaptability, it is able to colonise all kinds of habitats, from waste ground to woodland.