Maple
Acer
Maples (Acer) form a large genus of trees and shrubs, nearly all from the northern hemisphere and many from China. They range from small multi-stemmed trees to large shade trees. Their opposite, usually lobed leaves, colourful young growth, winged fruits and above all their fiery autumn colours make them garden classics.
Acer rubrum
The red maple (Acer rubrum) comes from eastern North America and in our climate grows into a medium-sized tree of around 15 m with a dense, conical to rounded crown. Small red, scented flowers appear in March before the leaves, and the three- to five-lobed leaves on red stalks turn a brilliant scarlet in autumn.
Location and soil
Maples grow best in sun or partial shade, in deep, fertile soil that stays moist but drains well. Many species accept lime, but the snakebark maples prefer lime-free, humus-rich soil. Most are very hardy and need no winter protection.
Pruning and care
Plant preferably in autumn and keep the soil moist during the first two summers; a mulch layer helps. Maples need little pruning: remove dead or crossing branches between December and February or in June, but never in early spring, when the sap rises and cuts bleed. They are rarely troubled by pests or diseases.
Use in the garden
Depending on the species, maples serve as a specimen tree on a lawn, a shade tree near the house, a street or avenue tree, in a free-growing or clipped hedge, or in a mixed shrub border. The snakebark maples deserve a prominent spot where their bark can be enjoyed in winter.
