27. Colchester Castle Sycamore
27. Colchester Castle Sycamore
A tree that defies logic, and gravity has become the defining feature of Colchester’s ancient castle
The sycamore growing on top of Colchester Castle's south-east tower was planted by the mayor's daughter in 1815 to commemorate the defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo. As a result of its position and limited soil, it is rather smaller than other 200 year old trees. It had to be removed in 1985 for wall repairs but it survived and was put back after this sabbatical into its original position in 1987.
Species details
Sycamore
Acer pseudoplatanus
Where to find it
Colchester Castle, Colchester CO1 1TJ
///dices.issued.odds | 51.890403, 0.902843
Other sycamores
Day 2
The urban tree festival is in full swing and continues until Sunday 21st May. Check out the programme here.
Today’s highlights include an event in Colchester:
10:30: Colchester Campus Tree Walk A stroll round the University of Essex Campus including Wivenhoe House. It’s free, but booking is essential
Another top tip for Sunday:
2:00: Forests at the Edge: Borders, Boundaries, Bodies Explore Stanmore Country Park, a forest ecology on the edges of London with artist Becky Lyon. Booking essential
Throughout the Urban Tree Festival. I’ll be posting a Daily Urban Tree which will reflect the places where the Festival is happening and events that are taking place.