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Description
Acer Oblongum, commonly known as the Nepal Maple, is a deciduous tree native to the Himalayan region of Nepal, Bhutan, and India. It belongs to the family Sapindaceae and is a part of the genus Acer. The tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and features a dense, rounded crown with spreading branches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
Acer Oblongum is a medium-sized tree with a rounded crown and spreading branches. The tree has a smooth, gray bark that peels off in patches as it ages. The leaves are simple, opposite, and palmately lobed, with 3-5 lobes. The leaves are green in color and turn yellow, orange, or red in the fall. The flowers are small and yellowish-green, and the fruit is a paired samara with a wing that is 2-3 cm long.
Care Guide
Acer Oblongum requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:Water: The tree needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, and make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot.Fertilization: Feed the tree with a balanced fertilizer every spring before the new growth appears. Use a slow-release fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.Soil: Acer Oblongum prefers well-draining, moist soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH level of 5.0-7.5.Sunlight: The tree prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. It can tolerate full shade but may not produce as much fruit or foliage.Hardiness Zones: Acer Oblongum is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acer Oblongum is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:Pests: Japanese beetles, aphids, and scale insects can infest the tree and cause damage to the leaves and bark.Diseases: Verticillium wilt, powdery mildew, and leaf spot can affect the tree and cause discoloration or defoliation.
Habitat
Acer Oblongum is native to the Himalayan region of Nepal, Bhutan, and India. It grows in mountainous areas at elevations of 800-3000 meters. The tree prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Acer Oblongum tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, the tree is hardy in USDA zones 6-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures.Q: Does Acer Oblongum produce edible fruit?
A: Yes, the tree produces paired samaras that are edible but not commonly consumed by humans.Q: How often should I fertilize Acer Oblongum?
A: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring before new growth appears.Q: Is Acer Oblongum resistant to pests and diseases?
A: No, the tree is susceptible to Japanese beetles, aphids, scale insects, verticillium wilt, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Acer Oblongum:- Acer griseum (Paperbark Maple)- Acer palmatum (Japanese Maple)- Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple)- Acer rubrum (Red Maple)- Acer campestre (Hedge Maple)
References
– “Acer oblongum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277313&isprofile=0.- “Nepal Maple.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 27, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16531/i-Acer-oblongum-i/Details.
