Contents
1. Description
Acer Campestre, commonly known as the field maple, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It is native to Europe, western Asia, and parts of North Africa. The tree can grow up to 20m tall, and has a rounded crown with a broad and spreading canopy. The bark is grey-brown and develops shallow grooves and ridges as it ages. The leaves are 5-lobed, with a serrated margin, and are green in color. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow, orange, or red. Acer Campestre produces small yellow-green flowers in early spring, followed by the production of winged fruits known as samaras.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Acer |
3. Appearance
Acer Campestre is a medium-sized tree with a dense and spreading canopy. The tree can grow up to 20m tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 1m. The bark is grey-brown and develops shallow grooves and ridges as it ages. The leaves are 5-lobed, with a serrated margin, and are green in color. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow, orange, or red, adding to the tree’s ornamental value. Acer Campestre produces small yellow-green flowers in early spring, which are followed by the production of winged fruits known as samaras. The samaras are green in color and ripen to brown in late summer.
4. Care Guide
Acer Campestre is a hardy tree that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for its care:- Water: The tree needs regular watering during the first few years of growth to establish a strong root system. After that, it is relatively drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering.- Fertilization: The tree does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring if you want to promote vigorous growth.- Soil: Acer Campestre prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow in shaded areas, but it may not produce as much foliage or fruit.- Hardiness Zones: Acer Campestre is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Acer Campestre is relatively disease-resistant and does not suffer from many pest infestations. However, here are some pests and diseases that can affect the tree:- Verticillium wilt: This is a fungal disease that causes the leaves to wilt and die. The disease can be prevented by planting the tree in well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering.- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. The disease can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the tree and avoiding overhead watering.- Scale insects: These are small insects that feed on the sap of the tree. They can be controlled by applying horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.- Aphids: These are small insects that feed on the sap of the tree. They can be controlled by applying horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
6. Habitat
Acer Campestre is native to Europe, western Asia, and parts of North Africa. It can grow in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, and parks. The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. Acer Campestre prefers full sun to partial shade, and can grow in shaded areas, but it may not produce as much foliage or fruit.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Is Acer Campestre a good tree for urban areas?
A: Yes, Acer Campestre is a good tree for urban areas as it is tolerant of pollution and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Q: Can Acer Campestre be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Acer Campestre can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the tree’s root system.
Q: How often should I water Acer Campestre?
A: During the first few years of growth, Acer Campestre should be watered regularly to establish a strong root system. After that, it is relatively drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering.
Q: Does Acer Campestre produce fruit?
A: Yes, Acer Campestre produces winged fruits known as samaras. The samaras are green in color and ripen to brown in late summer.
8. Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Acer Campestre:- Acer Platanoides (Norway Maple)- Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple)- Acer Rubrum (Red Maple)- Acer Palmatum (Japanese Maple)- Acer Negundo (Boxelder)
9. References
– “Acer campestre.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 21, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=q640.- “Acer campestre.” Plants for a Future. Accessed July 21, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Acer+campestre.- “Field Maple.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed July 21, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7412/Acer-campestre/Details.
