this could be a weed. but I have no idea.
thank you.

It looks like a tree that has been chopped down and is growing back.
Maybe a California Sycamore/Western Sycamore/Platanus racemosa?

It reminds me of a Sycamore or London Plane tree.

Greene is right. I was going to ask if there is a stump buried down there somewhere.

hmm. i have no idea if there is a tree stump. i have to check the area again. but most likely there is no stump because it is just right next to a building. i will post again if i found anything.
thank you.

Most interesting leaves...they appear to be stalkless and clasp the stem.

I wonder if it might be Smallanthus uvedalius.???

"Hairy Leafcup ... The opposite leaves form a small cup around the stem and hence the name leafcup."

http://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowe...


http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EQ3U...

99% sure this is not a tree.

Bad suggestion! Ooops!
Your plant has alternate leaves.
Back to the drawing board.