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Description
Acer Pseudoplatanus Leopoldii, commonly known as the variegated sycamore maple, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Aceraceae. It is a cultivar of the sycamore maple tree and is native to Europe. The tree has attractive green and cream variegated leaves that turn yellow in the fall, adding color to any landscape. It can grow up to 30 meters in height and has a wide spread.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
The variegated sycamore maple has a striking appearance due to its green and cream variegated leaves that are 10-15 cm wide. The leaves are lobed and have a palmate shape. The tree has a smooth gray bark that becomes rough with age. The branches are sturdy and grow horizontally, giving the tree a broad and open crown. In the spring, the tree produces clusters of greenish-yellow flowers that are followed by winged seeds in the fall.
Care Guide
The variegated sycamore maple requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some care tips:- Water: The tree needs regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. It prefers moist but well-drained soil.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall.- Soil: The tree grows best in fertile, moist, and well-drained soil.- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The variegated sycamore maple is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The variegated sycamore maple is susceptible to some pests and diseases, including:- Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease causes wilting, yellowing, and death of the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.- Tar Spot: This fungal disease causes black spots on the leaves. It does not harm the tree but can be unsightly.- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves and can cause stunted growth. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Scales: These small insects attach themselves to the leaves and suck the sap. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The variegated sycamore maple prefers moist and well-drained soil and grows best in cool, temperate climates. It is commonly found in parks, gardens, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my variegated sycamore maple?
A: Water the tree regularly, especially during the first few years of growth. It prefers moist but well-drained soil.Q: What is the hardiness zone for the variegated sycamore maple?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.Q: How tall can the variegated sycamore maple grow?
A: The tree can grow up to 30 meters in height.Q: What is the appearance of the variegated sycamore maple?
A: The tree has green and cream variegated leaves that turn yellow in the fall. It has a smooth gray bark and sturdy branches that grow horizontally.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the variegated sycamore maple:- Acer campestre (Field Maple)- Acer platanoides (Norway Maple)- Acer pseudoplatanus (Sycamore Maple)- Acer rubrum (Red Maple)- Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple)
References
– Dirr, M. A., & Heuser, C. W. (2006). The Reference Manual of Woody Plant Propagation: From Seed to Tissue Culture. Timber Press.- Gilman, E. F. (1997). Trees for Urban and Suburban Landscapes. Delmar Publishers.- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Acer pseudoplatanus ‘Leopoldii’. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m150
