Northumberland’s Legendary Sycamore Gap (growing again?)
Sycamore Gap tree (which stood in a dip next to Hadrian’s Wall) was recently cut down in an act of eco-vandalism. This drunken act of stupidity cost two men over 4 years of their lives, recently imprisoned.
Situated in the wonderfully-named village of Once Brewed, the stump has recently sprung eight new shoots, a hopeful sign of coming back to life. Authorities ask people not to leave stones or tributes, as this could disturb the roots (even stepping on the soil could damage the tree’s chance of recovery).
Sycamore trees (along with yew and oak) are toxic to horses.
Sycamore trees have puzzle-like bark and grow very fast, living up to 500 years. The bark sheds in patches to protect from pollution, insects and fungi, and in autumn produce fuzzy brown balls (fruit) that break apart into wind-dispersed seeds.
These trees have large hollow trunks, which provide homes for birds, bats and insects. They often can be found alongside streams and rivers, although London’s plane sycamore is a hybrid, often planted due to being resistant to pollution.
