For centuries, the Corstorphine Sycamore was one of Edinburgh’s finest living landmarks. Its bright yellow foliage, which flushes several weeks earlier than is normal for the species, marks it out as unusual. It has been recognised as a distinct botanical variety and named Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Corstorphinense’, or Corstorphine sycamore, in recognition of its origin in the Edinburgh suburb.
Origins of the tree
The sycamore is thought to have been planted about 1600, and is steeped in local history and tradition. It is likely that it is a relict of a 16th century avenue of trees that led to Corstorphine Castle.
In 1679 the second Lord Forrester, James Baillie, a drunk who engaged in several extra-marital relationships, was murdered by his lover, Cristian Nimmo, beneath the tree. She killed him with his own sword during a violent quarrel.
Another historical record notes that Lord Forrester is reputed to have buried treasure beneath the tree (please don’t do any digging when you visit!), and villagers have been frightened off by a ghostly voice warning them to stop digging.
At its peak this ancient tree was almost 16.7 metres (55 feet) high and 3.8 metres (12 feet 6 inches) in girth. In 1955 the City of Edinburgh Council placed it under a Tree Preservation Order for its protection. The tree and the ground around it were gifted to The Corstorphine Trust in 1970.
Artefacts and descendants
Tragically, the tree was reduced to a shattered stump when it was blown down at 8.10pm in the Boxing Day gale of 1998. However, the ancient tree continued to survive until 2005, when it finally succumbed. Despite the unfortunate loss of Corstorphine’s famous and much-loved landmark, it continues to live on in a number of artefacts made from the salvaged timber.
The most notable is a beautiful violin, made by renowned maker Colin Adamson. It was commissioned by an anonymous benefactor on behalf of the Corstorphine Trust and donated to St Mary’s Music School in Edinburgh, to be played by gifted musicians. This splendid instrument should provide pleasure for many years to come. Turned bowls, eggcups and clocks were also made from the timber.
Unfortunately, this tree did not produce seeds and could only be propagated from cuttings, from which other trees - its descendants - have been planted around Edinburgh.
Images: copyright Archie Miles
