Acer pseudoplatanus is a species of deciduous broadleaf flowering plants (in the Sapindaceae or Soapberry family), native to central and southern Europe and the Caucasus, and naturalised in Britain. Acer pseudoplatanus can live to 400 years and grow to 35 metres tall. Its broad, rounded crown and dense foliage provide excellent shade. It has large five-lobed leaves with blunt points, and often with black spots, due to a fungus. The tree produces hanging clusters of small, greenish-yellow flowers in spring that develop into winged seeds (samaras), joined in pairs at an angle of 90 degrees or less. (The leaves of Acer saccharum have round-ended points, only one per lobe, and its samaras are horseshoe-shaped. The leaves of Acer platanoides have sharp points, often more than one per lobe, and its samaras are widely angled.)

On account of its adaptability, attractive form and relatively fast growth, Acer pseudoplatanus is often planted parks, along streets, and in woodlands, and in reforestation and ecological restoration projects. It was introduced to Britain from mainland Europe, probably in the Middle Ages, and has been planted outside Europe as well, becoming an invasive species in some regions. Its creamy-white close-grained timber is used for musical instruments, furniture, joinery, wood flooring and kitchen utensils.

The Sycamore Gap Tree was a sycamore standing next to Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, illegally felled in 2023. The Tolpuddle Martyrs' Tree is a sycamore in Dorset under which six agricultural labourers formed an early trades union in 1834, for which they were tried and transported to Australia, but three years later were reprieved and returned to Britain following public protest.

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