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chalk maple
Scientific Name: Acer leucoderme
Family: Aceraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree, Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Chalk Maple (Acer leucoderme)
The chalk maple, scientifically known as Acer leucoderme, is a captivating deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions the tree's sapindales order, which, in some plants, can be associated with skin irritation, although this is not explicitly stated in relation to the Chalk Maple.
Considerations for Children
- The text mentions the tree's sapindales order, which, in some plants, can be associated with skin irritation, although this is not explicitly stated in relation to the Chalk Maple.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Acer leucoderme
- Common Names: Chalk Maple, Whitebark Maple, Whitebarked Maple
- Family: Aceraceae
- Order: Sapindales
- Some authorities consider it a subspecies of sugar maple (Acer saccharum).
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the southeastern and south-central United States, from North Carolina south to Georgia.
- Specifically mentioned as the dominant maple in the Sabine National Forest.
- Grows well in rocky soils.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- A small to medium-sized deciduous tree, typically reaching 25 to 30 feet in height, although some sources suggest an average of 20-25 feet.
- Often multi-trunked.
- Mature bark is smooth, chalky-white, or silvery-white, particularly on the upper part of the trunk.
- Leaves are smaller than those of the northern sugar maple and yellow-green instead of whitish.
- Known for its superb fall color, displaying brilliant orange and red hues.
- Tree texture is medium.
- The form is oval to rounded.
Ecological Role
- Highly shade- and drought-tolerant.
- Displays good dry-soil tolerance.
Quirky Facts
- There are multiple references to "Chalk Maple Dr" in Cary, NC, which could indicate its popularity as a landscaping tree in that area.
- There's a reference to a "Kamui Chalk MAPLE," a billiard chalk product, a playful connection to the tree's name.
- The lyrics to a song titled "Chalk Maple" by Gridlink are mentioned, showcasing an unexpected cultural reference.
Synonyms and Similar Species
- Similar to Southern Sugar Maple (Acer floridanum) but smaller and often multi-trunked.
- Reportedly similar to Acer barbatum (Florida Maple).
- Sometimes classified as a subspecies of Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum).
Further Information
- UGA Herbarium (photo credit)
- Dave's Garden (gardening community)