SafePlants

Acer campestre: The Field Maple or Hedge Maple

Acer campestre, commonly known as field maple or hedge maple, is a versatile tree appreciated for its adaptability and use in both formal landscapes and natural settings.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that the bark is corky, which could present a chewing hazard for some animals.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that the bark is corky, which could be pulled off, although the texture may be interesting.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Acer campestre
• Common Names: Field Maple, Hedge Maple, English Field Maple
• Family: Aceraceae
• Synonyms: The text does not explicitly list any synonyms.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Europe and western Asia.
• Commonly found in hedgerows between farm fields in Europe, particularly in southern England where it prefers alkaline sites.
• Also found in open deciduous woods.

Ecological Role

• The text indicates that hedge maple can exhibit invasive traits, enabling it to spread aggressively in North America. However, some sources suggest insufficient supporting data.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Generally a small to medium-sized tree, reaching a mature height of 20-30 feet.
• Typically low-branched with a rounded form, although considerable variability exists.
• Branches are slender.
• When planted as a hedge, it can become very broad.
• Deciduous, upright, and round-headed with dense foliage.
• Bark is corky.
• Leaves are small with 3 to 5 palmately rounded lobes. Young foliage is tinged red.

Cultivation and Uses

• Frequently used as a hedging plant, suitable for mixed species hedge rows.
• Also used as a shade or street tree, particularly in smaller urban spaces.
• Adaptable to trimming as a hedge or screen.
• Easy to maintain, very strong, and durable, suitable for growing in coastal and exposed locations.
• Adaptable to alkaline soils.

Quirky Facts

• Maples make great bonsai plants.