Contents
Description
Acer Leucoderme, commonly known as the chalk maple, is a small tree that belongs to the family Sapindaceae. This deciduous tree is native to the eastern part of North America, including the Appalachian Mountains. It grows up to a height of 20 to 30 feet and has a spread of 15 to 25 feet. Acer Leucoderme is a slow-growing tree and can live up to 150 years. It is popular for its attractive bark, which appears chalky-white and is smooth to the touch.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
The Acer Leucoderme tree has a dense, oval-shaped canopy that provides excellent shade. The tree’s leaves are simple and lobed, with a dark green color on the upper surface and a lighter green underneath. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful yellow, orange, or red color. The bark of the tree is smooth, thin, and chalky-white in color. It peels off in small flakes to reveal a light brown or grayish color underneath. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring, followed by winged seeds that ripen in the fall.
Care Guide
Acer Leucoderme is a low-maintenance tree that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
- Water: Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.
- Soil: The tree prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. Use a soil test kit to test the pH of the soil before planting.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Acer Leucoderme is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acer Leucoderme is relatively pest-resistant and disease-resistant. However, here are some common pests and diseases to keep an eye out for:
- Borers: These insects can cause damage to the tree’s bark and wood. Look for small holes in the bark, sawdust around the base of the tree, and dying branches. Treat the tree with an insecticide if necessary.
- Canker Diseases: These diseases can cause sunken areas on the tree’s bark, as well as dead branches and leaves. Prune infected branches and treat the tree with a fungicide if necessary.
- Verticillium Wilt: This disease can cause wilting, yellowing, and dying leaves. There is no cure for this disease, so infected trees should be removed and destroyed.
Habitat
Acer Leucoderme is native to the eastern part of North America, including the Appalachian Mountains. The tree grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and along streams and riverbanks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I prune Acer Leucoderme?
A: Prune Acer Leucoderme in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Thin out the canopy to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration. Avoid pruning more than 25% of the tree’s canopy at one time.
Q: Can Acer Leucoderme grow in containers?
A: Acer Leucoderme is not well-suited for container growing. The tree has a deep root system and requires a large amount of soil to thrive. It is best planted in the ground.
Q: How often should I fertilize Acer Leucoderme?
A: Fertilize Acer Leucoderme once a year in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to determine the correct amount to use.
Q: How long does it take for Acer Leucoderme to grow?
A: Acer Leucoderme is a slow-growing tree and can take 10 to 20 years to reach its full height of 20 to 30 feet. However, the tree can live up to 150 years.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Acer Leucoderme:
- Acer Saccharum (sugar maple)
- Acer Rubrum (red maple)
- Acer Negundo (boxelder)
- Acer Palmatum (Japanese maple)
References
- Dirr, Michael A. Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses. Stipes Pub Llc, 2009.
- Gilman, Edward F. Trees for Urban and Suburban Landscapes. Delmar Publishers, 1997.
- “Acer leucoderme.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a871.
