It was the first tree I got to know on the Michigan State campus. It was June, 1966, the summer before my senior year of high school. Even then, this sycamore tree stood in all its majestic glory on what is today called Adams Marching Field across from Landon Hall. I was on campus for a radio and communications workshop, leading to my initial major one year later.
Today, we visit the tree on many campus walks, and especially when it is in the middle of the festive Marching Band pregame shows, before the Spartan football games.
The Sycamore, as it is known in North America, has always been a special species of tree to us. It's distinctive bark, large leaves, and bristle covered seed balls all combine to make it unique. It is of the genus platanus, and is known as the Plane tree in Scotland, and most of Europe.
There are many distinctive sycamore trees around campus.
Here are a few of them: (again, a reminder that you can click on the pictures to make them bigger)
This triple trunk beauty is between Beal Garden and the Circle IM. The sign identifies it as a "Plane Tree."
This one stands guard over the McLane Baseball Stadium.
They are easy to find in the Kellogg Center area.
Another favorite near the Union by the Human Ecology building.
This row we found in Spartan Village, where we used to live in married housing. The trees are a lot bigger now, and our apartment has been torn down.
And finally, this one with Ag. Hall in the background.
Special thanks to Leslie for the pictures, and Janice Brooks for being a part of the tree walks.
Tom I love your trees, we use to have a large Sycomore by our house lighting hit it just to many times. Have always wanted another one. Maybe next year I'll plant one. Thanks for the pictures. Phyllis
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