Contents
1. Description
Acer Obtusifolium, commonly known as the bluntleaf maple, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Sapindaceae family. This tree is native to North America and can be found in various regions of the United States, including the Great Lakes area, the Northeast, and the Appalachian Mountains. It typically grows up to 30 feet tall and has a spread of 20 feet.The Acer Obtusifolium has a rounded crown with a dense branching pattern. Its bark is gray to brown and has deep furrows that become more pronounced as the tree ages. The leaves of this tree are simple and lobed, with a blunt tip, hence the common name “bluntleaf” maple. In the fall, the leaves turn a vibrant red or orange color, adding to the tree’s ornamental value.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Acer |
| Species | Acer Obtusifolium |
3. Appearance
The Acer Obtusifolium has a unique appearance that makes it a popular choice for landscaping. Its dense crown of foliage provides ample shade, making it an ideal tree for parks and gardens. The leaves of this tree are typically 2-4 inches long and wide, with three to five lobes that are separated by broad, shallow sinuses. The lobes of the leaves are rounded and have a blunt tip, giving the tree its common name.The Acer Obtusifolium produces small, yellowish-green flowers in the spring that are followed by winged fruit clusters, known as samaras. These samaras are about 1-2 inches long and are paired with a V-shaped angle. They mature in the fall, turning brown and dropping to the ground.
4. Care Guide
The Acer Obtusifolium is a hardy tree that requires minimal care once established. Here are some tips on how to care for this tree:- Water: The tree requires moderate watering, especially during the first year after planting. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: The tree does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from an application of slow-release fertilizer in the spring.- Soil: The tree grows best in well-draining, acidic soil. It can tolerate some clay and loamy soils, but it prefers a soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The Acer Obtusifolium prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not grow as vigorously.- Hardiness Zones: This tree is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
The Acer Obtusifolium is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to some common issues, including:- Verticillium wilt: This is a fungal disease that can cause leaves to wilt and turn yellow. It can be treated with fungicides, but prevention is the best strategy.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and the development of sooty mold. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap.- Japanese beetles: These pests can defoliate trees if left unchecked. They can be controlled with insecticides or by handpicking.
6. Habitat
The Acer Obtusifolium is native to North America and can be found in various regions of the United States. It typically grows in moist, well-drained soils in upland forests, along streams, and on rocky slopes. It is a common tree in the Great Lakes area, the Northeast, and the Appalachian Mountains.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Is the Acer Obtusifolium a good shade tree?
A: Yes, the Acer Obtusifolium is a good shade tree due to its dense crown of foliage.Q: Does the Acer Obtusifolium require regular fertilization?
A: No, the tree does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from an application of slow-release fertilizer in the spring.Q: Is the Acer Obtusifolium susceptible to any pests or diseases?
A: Yes, the tree can be susceptible to issues such as verticillium wilt, scale insects, and Japanese beetles.Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Acer Obtusifolium?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
9. Related Plants
– Acer rubrum (Red Maple)- Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple)- Acer negundo (Box Elder)- Acer palmatum (Japanese Maple)- Acer platanoides (Norway Maple)
10. References
– “Acer Obtusifolium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=i790- “Acer Obtusifolium.” North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/acer-obtusifolium/- “Bluntleaf Maple.” The Morton Arboretum. https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/bluntleaf-maple
