 In Scotland , sycamores were once a favoured tree for hangings , because their lower branches rarely broke under the strain . Both male and female flowers produce abundant nectar , which makes a fragrant , delicately flavoured and pale @-@ coloured honey . The nectar and copious dull yellow ochre pollen are collected by honeybees as food sources . The sap rises vigorously in the spring and like that of sugar maple can be tapped to provide a refreshing drink , as a source of sugar and to make beer . 
