Sycamore

SYCAMORE (Greek, fig-mulberry). This tree (Ficus sycomorus) is now rarely seen in Palestine except along the coast, though it is abundant in Egypt. It belongs to the genus of the common fig, which it closely resembles in fruit, while its aromatic leaf is shaped like that of the mulberry. From these two resemblances comes its name. The sycamore is a large and noble tree, affording a dense shade, while the branches are remarkably spreading and are easily reached. This was the reason why Zacchaeus climbed it in order to get a glimpse of Jesus as he passed. Luke 19:4. It was once exceedingly abundant in the valley of the Jordan, 1 Kgs 10:27; 2 Chr 1:15; 2 Chr 9:27, but all are now gone save a few aged survivors near Jericho. Its fruit grows singly or in clusters on small sprigs, which grow directly from the branches and trunks, independently of the leaves. Sycamore fruit resembles in shape and peculiar method of flowering that of the Fig, which see. It Sycamore. is, however, smaller, but sweetish and edible, especially if cut or nipped a few days before it is quite ripe, that the acrid properties may be discharged. In Am 7:14 we should read, in this sense, "cutter" (instead of "gatherer") "of sycamore fruit." As the sycamore bears continuously for more than half the year, it is in this respect a valuable tree. The wood, though porous, is exceedingly durable, being the material of the Egyptian mummy-cases, which are three thousand or more years old. It seems to have been valued on this account or for its fruit by David. 1 Chr 27:28. There is allusion to its peculiar sensitiveness to frost in Ps 78:47. In our own country the plane tree, button-ball, or cotton-wood is often called sycamore; while in England, and more rarely here, a species of maple (acer pseudoplatanus), used as a shade-tree, bears this name. These trees have no relationship to the true sycamore, and should be otherwise designated.