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Description
Acer Davidii Serpentine, also known as Snake Bark Maple, is a deciduous plant native to China. It is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach up to 25 feet in height with a spread of 15 to 20 feet. The bark of the tree is the most distinctive feature, with green and white stripes that give it a snake-like appearance, hence the name. The leaves are opposite, simple, and lobed, with a dark green color in the summer that turns yellow in the fall. The tree also produces small yellow-green flowers in the spring that are followed by winged fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
Acer Davidii Serpentine has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. As mentioned earlier, the bark is the most distinctive feature, with green and white stripes that give it a snake-like appearance. The leaves are lobed and have a dark green color in the summer that turns yellow in the fall. The tree produces small yellow-green flowers in the spring that are followed by winged fruits. The overall shape of the tree is rounded and symmetrical, making it an excellent choice as a specimen tree.
Care Guide
Acer Davidii Serpentine is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The tree needs regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The tree does not need a lot of fertilizer, but a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help with growth.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate some clay but does not do well in sandy soil.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade but needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acer Davidii Serpentine is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and yellow. Regular spraying with water or insecticidal soap can help control the infestation.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Regular pruning to improve air circulation and fungicide application can help control the disease.
- Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. There is no cure, and infected trees should be removed.
Habitat
Acer Davidii Serpentine is native to China and can be found in mountainous areas at elevations up to 10,000 feet. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Acer Davidii Serpentine tolerate drought?
A: No, the tree needs regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth.
Q: How fast does Acer Davidii Serpentine grow?
A: The tree grows at a moderate rate of 12 to 24 inches per year.
Q: Can Acer Davidii Serpentine be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container, but it will need regular watering and fertilization.
Q: Does Acer Davidii Serpentine attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree can attract birds and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Acer Palmatum
- Acer Rubrum
- Acer Saccharum
- Acer Negundo
References
- “Acer Davidii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b657
- “Acer Davidii.” The Morton Arboretum. https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/snakebark-maple
- “Acer Davidii.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/1249/Acer-davidii/Details
