Lent Reflection

30th March 2022

The field maple – acer campestre – is a native British tree. It grows to a height of 20m and can have a life span of 350 years. Its leaves are attractive to aphids and the tree therefore is attractive to many aphid loving insects such as ladybirds. Its wood is hard and dense and is traditionally used in wood turning, carving and for making musical instruments, particularly harps. Like all maples, the sap can be collected and used as a sweet syrup.

The field maple is quick growing and is thus good for hedging.

Pleasant words are like honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. Proverbs 16:24

In the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter and sharing of pleasures. For in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed.  Kahlil Gibran

Author: Judith Russenberger

Environmentalist and theologian, with husband and three grown up children plus one cat, living in London SW14. I enjoy running and drinking coffee - ideally with a friend or a book. View all posts by Judith Russenberger