Contents
Description
Acer Buergerianum, also known as Trident Maple, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Aceraceae family. It is native to eastern China, Japan, and Korea, and is commonly grown as an ornamental tree in many parts of the world. It is a relatively small tree, growing up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide, with a rounded crown and a straight trunk. The bark is grayish-brown and slightly rough, while the leaves are bright green and have three lobes, giving them a trident shape. In the fall, the leaves turn a vibrant shade of red, orange, or yellow, making it a popular choice for autumn landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
The Acer Buergerianum is a small tree that grows up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide. It has a rounded crown and a straight trunk. The bark is grayish-brown and slightly rough. The leaves are bright green and have three lobes, giving them a trident shape. In the fall, the leaves turn a vibrant shade of red, orange, or yellow, making it a popular choice for autumn landscaping. The tree produces small, winged fruits that are green when young and turn brown as they mature.
Care Guide
The Acer Buergerianum is a relatively low-maintenance tree, but it still requires proper care to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:
Water
Water the tree deeply and regularly, especially during the first few years after planting. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During periods of drought, water the tree more frequently.
Fertilization
Fertilize the tree once a year with a slow-release fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in the spring, just as new growth is starting to appear.
Soil
The Acer Buergerianum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does best in slightly acidic soil. If the soil is too alkaline, the tree may develop chlorosis (yellowing of the leaves).
Sunlight
The Acer Buergerianum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the tree to become leggy and weak. If planting in a hot climate, provide some afternoon shade to protect the tree from scorching.
Hardiness Zones
The Acer Buergerianum is hardy in USDA zones 5-8. It can tolerate cold temperatures down to -10°F (-23°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
The Acer Buergerianum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems. Here are a few to watch out for:
Scale Insects
These small insects can infest the tree and suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and drop off. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Verticillium Wilt
This fungal disease can cause the leaves to wilt and turn yellow, and can eventually kill the tree. There is no cure for Verticillium wilt, so infected trees should be removed and destroyed.
Anthracnose
This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and can lead to premature leaf drop. Treat with a fungicide and make sure to clean up fallen leaves to prevent the fungus from spreading.
Habitat
The Acer Buergerianum is native to eastern China, Japan, and Korea, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, mountainsides, and riverbanks. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Acer Buergerianum a good tree for small gardens?
A: Yes, the Acer Buergerianum is a relatively small tree that is well-suited for small gardens. It has a compact size and a rounded crown, making it a great choice for urban landscapes.
Q: Can the Acer Buergerianum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Acer Buergerianum can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization than if planted in the ground. Make sure to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the tree’s root system.
Q: How often should I prune my Acer Buergerianum?
A: Prune your Acer Buergerianum in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and shape the tree as desired.
Q: Can the Acer Buergerianum be used for bonsai?
A: Yes, the Acer Buergerianum is a popular choice for bonsai due to its small size and attractive foliage. It is relatively easy to care for and responds well to pruning and shaping.
Related Plants
- Acer Palmatum
- Acer Shirasawanum
- Acer Rubrum
- Acer Saccharum
References
- “Acer buergerianum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292500&isprofile=0&basic=acer%20buergerianum
- “Trident Maple.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/st051
- “Acer buergerianum.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1406/
