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Description
Acer Davidii, commonly known as David’s maple, is a deciduous tree native to China. It is named after the French missionary and naturalist, Armand David, who discovered the species in 1869. The tree can grow up to 25 meters in height and has an upright, rounded shape. The bark is smooth and greenish-gray when young, turning gray-brown as it ages. The leaves are opposite, simple, and palmately lobed with three to five pointed lobes. In autumn, the leaves turn a stunning mix of yellow, orange, and red.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
Acer Davidii is a stunning tree with a unique appearance. Its leaves are usually 10-15cm long and wide, with pointed lobes. The leaves are light green in spring, turning darker green in summer, and then a mix of yellow, orange, and red in autumn. The bark is also unique, with smooth greenish-gray bark that eventually turns gray-brown with age. The tree has an upright, rounded shape with a dense crown. It produces small greenish-yellow flowers in spring that turn into winged samaras in autumn.
Care Guide
Acer Davidii is a hardy tree that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
Water
Acer Davidii prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering. The tree can tolerate some drought once established.
Fertilization
Feed Acer Davidii with a balanced fertilizer in spring before new growth appears. Repeat this process in midsummer if necessary.
Soil
Acer Davidii prefers a slightly acidic, well-draining soil. If the soil is too alkaline, add sulfur to lower the pH level.
Sunlight
Acer Davidii prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full sun but may require more watering in hot weather.
Hardiness Zones
Acer Davidii is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 6-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acer Davidii can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some to watch out for:
Pests
– Aphids: These small insects can cause distorted leaves and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing leaves and sticky honeydew. Use horticultural oil to control them.- Japanese beetles: These beetles can skeletonize leaves and damage the tree’s bark. Use insecticides to control them.
Diseases
– Verticillium wilt: This fungal disease can cause wilting, yellowing, and death of the tree’s branches. There is no cure, so remove infected branches.- Tar spot: This fungal disease causes black spots on the tree’s leaves. It is mostly cosmetic and doesn’t harm the tree’s health.
Habitat
Acer Davidii is native to central and western China, where it grows in forests and mountain valleys. It prefers moist, well-draining soils and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Acer Davidii a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Acer Davidii can provide good shade due to its dense crown and upright shape.
Q: Can Acer Davidii grow in hot climates?
A: Acer Davidii prefers cooler climates and may require more watering if grown in hot areas.
Q: How often should I fertilize Acer Davidii?
A: Feed Acer Davidii with a balanced fertilizer in spring before new growth appears. Repeat this process in midsummer if necessary.
Q: Can Acer Davidii grow in containers?
A: Yes, Acer Davidii can grow in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Acer Davidii:- Acer palmatum- Acer rubrum- Acer saccharum- Acer platanoides- Acer campestre
References
– “Acer davidii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c865. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021.- “Acer davidii.” Plants for a Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Acer+davidii. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021.- “David’s Maple.” Arbor Day Foundation, www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=1967. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021.- “Growing and Caring for David’s Maple Trees.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/growing-and-caring-for-davids-maple-trees-3269267. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021.
