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Description
Acer Spicatum, commonly known as the Mountain Maple, is a small deciduous tree or large shrub that belongs to the Aceraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found from Newfoundland to Alaska, and as far south as Georgia. The tree is typically found in moist, rocky areas of forests, and is known for its beautiful fall colors.The Mountain Maple can grow up to 30 feet tall, with a spread of 20 feet. Its growth rate is slow to moderate, and it typically has a multi-stemmed, upright growth habit. The tree’s bark is grayish-brown, with shallow furrows and scaly plates. Its leaves are small, measuring 2-5 inches long, and are arranged opposite each other on the stem. In the spring, the leaves are green, turning into a yellow-green color in the summer, and then a bright red or orange in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
The Mountain Maple has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other maples. Its bark is grayish-brown, with shallow furrows and scaly plates. The tree’s leaves are small and arranged opposite each other on the stem. In the spring, the leaves are green, turning into a yellow-green color in the summer, and then a bright red or orange in the fall. The Mountain Maple’s flowers are small and yellowish-green, and bloom in early spring before the leaves emerge. Its fruits are samaras, which are winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind. The samaras are green in the summer, turning brown in the fall.
Care Guide
The Mountain Maple is a low-maintenance tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for your Mountain Maple:- Water: The Mountain Maple prefers moist soils, so be sure to water it regularly during dry periods.- Fertilization: Fertilize your Mountain Maple in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: The Mountain Maple prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The Mountain Maple prefers partial shade to full sun.- Hardiness Zones: The Mountain Maple is hardy in zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mountain Maple is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to some problems. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow.- Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease can cause the leaves to wilt and turn brown. It can be fatal if left untreated.- Canker: This fungal disease can cause the bark to crack and the branches to die back.
Habitat
The Mountain Maple is native to North America and can be found from Newfoundland to Alaska, and as far south as Georgia. The tree is typically found in moist, rocky areas of forests, and is known for its beautiful fall colors. It can also be planted in gardens and landscapes, where it adds beauty and color to any space.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall can the Mountain Maple grow?
A: The Mountain Maple can grow up to 30 feet tall.
Q: What is the Mountain Maple’s growth rate?
A: The Mountain Maple’s growth rate is slow to moderate.
Q: What is the Mountain Maple’s hardiness zone?
A: The Mountain Maple is hardy in zones 3-7.
Q: Does the Mountain Maple have any common pests or diseases?
A: The Mountain Maple can be susceptible to aphids, Verticillium Wilt, and canker.
Related Plants
– Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple)- Acer rubrum (Red Maple)- Acer palmatum (Japanese Maple)- Acer negundo (Box Elder)
References
– “Acer spicatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c346- “Acer spicatum.” North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/acer-spicatum/
