Family: Aceraceae

Origin: Mountains of central and southern Europe

A very common species, much planted in demesnes and as shelter belts; now totally naturalised. It spreads readily and has become a nuisance in many places.

In early summer trees produce pendent racemes composed of flowers of two sorts: male and hermaphrodite. The latter produce the fruit — the characteristic 'keys' or 'double samaras' which are shed in autumn.