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trident maple

Scientific Name: Acer buergerianum

Family: Aceraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Trident Maple (Acer buergerianum)

The Trident Maple, scientifically known as Acer buergerianum, is a popular deciduous tree admired for its adaptability, especially in the art of bonsai. It is also commonly called the Three-toothed Maple or Kaede.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text does not explicitly mention toxicity. However, general caution is always advised when introducing new plants to environments with pets.

Considerations for Children

  • The text does not explicitly mention toxicity. However, general caution is always advised when introducing new plants to environments with young children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Acer buergerianum
  • Family: Aceraceae
  • Common Names: Trident Maple, Three-toothed Maple, Kaede (Japanese)
  • Chinese Name: &#19977&#35282&#26539 (san jiao feng)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to eastern China (from Shandong west to southeastern Gansu), Korea, and Japan.
  • Hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 5b or 6a to 8a. Younger trees may experience twig kill in colder zones.
  • Found in warmer parts of Zone 5 (as mature plant)

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Deciduous tree with an upright, round-headed form.
  • Grows to a height of 20-45 feet (7-12m) and a spread of 20-25 feet in its native habitat, but typically smaller in cultivation.
  • Oval to rounded canopy with a straight trunk.
  • Leaves are opposite, simple, with 3 triangular lobes, and can be 3 inches wide.
  • Exhibits low spreading growth and multiple stems naturally, but can be trained to a single trunk.
  • Known for eye-popping fall colors.
  • Fast growing and robust, developing a thick trunk relatively quickly.

Ecological Role

  • Widely used as a street, lawn, and patio tree.

Bonsai Applications

  • Highly adaptable and popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts.
  • Tolerant of pruning above and below ground.
  • Responds well to nearly any bonsai technique.
  • Ideal for bonsai due to its tiny, three-lobed leaves and quickly thickening trunk.
  • Requires a cool/cold environment during winter when grown as a bonsai.

Further Information

  • Additional information can be found at arborday.org.