4. Acer campestre – Hedge Maple
Scientific Name: Acer campestre
Nativity: Europe, the British Isles, southwest Asia, and north Africa.
Interesting Info:
Also called a field maple, this species is often used to create hedgerows in Britain between farm fields. Here in the U.S., though, it is commonly used as an urban shade tree. Historically, the milky sap has been used as a sweetener or syrup. The best method is to harvest sap in early spring from an area that has cold winters. Bark has also been used to soothe sore eyes and prevent cholesterol accumulation, but must be dried before used. The fungus infection verticillium wilt can be an issue for all maples, but is particularly prominent in this one.