30 Popular Types Of Acer Pictorial Guide

Acer is a genus of trees and shrubs that belong to the family Sapindaceae. These plants are commonly known as maples and are native to the northern hemisphere, with the majority of species found in Asia. The Acer genus is a popular ornamental plant, prized for its attractive foliage and striking fall colors.

There are approximately 128 species of maples in the genus Acer, ranging in size from small shrubs to large trees. Most maples have a dense, rounded crown with a single trunk, although some species can be multi-stemmed or have a more open branching habit.

One of the most recognizable features of the Acer genus is its leaves. The leaves are typically palmately lobed or divided, although some species have unlobed, simple leaves. The leaf shape can vary greatly between species, from the classic maple leaf shape with three to five lobes to deeply divided leaves with dozens of narrow lobes.

The color of the leaves is another notable characteristic of the Acer genus. In the spring and summer, the leaves are typically a bright green color, although some species have variegated or yellow-green leaves. In the fall, many species produce a stunning display of oranges, yellows, and reds, making them a popular choice for autumn landscapes.

The flowers of maples are small and typically green or yellow in color. They are produced in the spring and are followed by winged samaras, or “helicopter seeds,” that are characteristic of the genus. The samaras have two wings that allow them to spin and glide through the air, aiding in their dispersal.

In addition to their ornamental value, the Acer genus has several practical uses. Some species are grown for their timber, which is used in furniture and flooring. The sap of certain maples is also harvested to make maple syrup, a popular sweetener.

Despite their popularity, some species of Acer are considered invasive in certain areas. These plants can outcompete native species and disrupt the balance of ecosystems. It is important to research and choose species that are well-suited to the local environment when planting maples.

Here are the 30 Popular Types Of Acer Pictorial Guide:

Acer Tegmentosum (Manchurian Maple)

Acer Tegmentosum, commonly known as Manchurian Maple, is a deciduous tree species native to China, Korea, and Japan. It has a slow to moderate growth rate and can grow up to 25 meters in height. The bark is gray and smooth when young, but it develops a distinctive exfoliating pattern as it matures. The leaves are green in the summer and turn to brilliant shades of red and orange in the fall. The tree produces small, winged fruits called samaras that are dispersed by the wind. Acer Tegmentosum is commonly used as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks due to its attractive foliage and bark.

Acer Davidii (David’s Maple)

Acer Davidii, commonly known as David’s Maple, is a deciduous tree species native to China. It is named after the French missionary and naturalist Armand David, who first discovered and described the species in 1869. David’s Maple is known for its striking green and white striped bark, which provides a unique visual interest to any landscape. It also has beautiful, serrated leaves that turn from green to shades of red and orange in the fall. David’s Maple is a popular ornamental tree in gardens and parks, and it can grow up to 60 feet tall.

Acer Sterculiaceum (Sterculia Maple)

Acer Sterculiaceum, also known as Sterculia Maple, is a small deciduous tree that is native to Southeast Asia. It has a rounded crown and distinctive, three-lobed leaves that turn from green to reddish-orange in the fall. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, followed by winged fruit in the fall. The Sterculia Maple is a popular ornamental tree due to its attractive foliage and manageable size, and it can be grown in a variety of soil types and moisture levels.

Acer Rubescens (Redvein Maple)

Acer Rubescens, commonly known as Redvein Maple, is a species of maple tree native to eastern North America. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall with a rounded crown and distinctive red petioles and veins on its leaves. In the fall, its leaves turn a beautiful shade of red, adding a splash of color to the autumn landscape. The Redvein Maple is a popular ornamental tree in landscaping due to its attractive appearance and ease of care.

Acer Pectinatum (Laceleaf Maple)

Acer Pectinatum, commonly known as Laceleaf Maple, is a deciduous tree species that is native to eastern Asia. It is characterized by its delicate, lacy leaves and graceful, weeping branches, making it a popular ornamental tree in gardens and parks. The leaves turn a beautiful red, orange, or yellow in the autumn months, adding to its appeal. It can grow up to 10 meters tall and requires relatively little maintenance, making it an ideal choice for those looking for an attractive yet easy-to-care-for tree.

Acer Maximowiczianum (Nikko Maple)

Acer Maximowiczianum, commonly known as Nikko Maple, is a deciduous tree species that belongs to the Aceraceae family. It is native to the mountainous regions of Japan and Korea and is known for its beautiful, green foliage that turns into a vivid, golden-yellow color in the autumn. The tree can grow up to 10–15 meters in height and prefers to grow in well-drained, acidic soils in partial shade to full sun. It is commonly used in landscaping and as a specimen tree due to its striking appearance.

Acer Henryi (Henry’s Maple)

Acer Henryi, commonly known as Henry’s Maple, is a deciduous tree species native to China. It is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 25 meters tall. The tree is known for its attractive leaves, which are dark green and have a glossy appearance. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant shade of red before falling off for the winter. The tree is often used as an ornamental plant in landscaping due to its beautiful foliage and graceful form.

Acer Barbinerve (Japanese Striped Maple)

Acer Barbinerve, commonly known as Japanese striped maple, is a small deciduous tree that is native to Japan. It has distinctive green and white striped bark, and its leaves are deeply lobed and serrated, turning shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall. This ornamental tree is often grown for its attractive foliage and bark, and can be used as a specimen plant in gardens or in containers on patios or decks.

Acer Truncatum (Shantung Maple)

Acer Truncatum, commonly known as Shantung Maple, is a deciduous tree species native to eastern Asia. It typically grows up to 20-30 feet tall with a rounded crown and produces stunning fall foliage in shades of red, orange, and yellow. Its leaves are deeply lobed and its bark is gray-brown with a smooth texture. This species is a popular ornamental tree in landscaping due to its attractive appearance and adaptability to a wide range of soil and climate conditions.

Acer Saccharinum (Silver Maple)

Acer Saccharinum, commonly known as Silver Maple, is a fast-growing deciduous tree that can reach up to 100 feet in height. It is native to eastern North America and is known for its distinctive silvery-gray bark and striking green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. Silver Maples are commonly found in wetland areas and are valued for their shade and ornamental qualities. They are also an important source of food for wildlife, including birds and squirrels.

Acer Pensylvanicum (Striped Maple)

Acer Pensylvanicum, also known as Striped Maple, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree native to North America. It is characterized by its greenish-white bark with vertical stripes, three-lobed leaves, and yellowish-green flowers that bloom in the spring. It is a popular ornamental tree due to its unique bark and foliage, and is also used for its hard and dense wood in various woodworking applications.

Acer Carpinifolium (Hornbeam Maple)

Acer Carpinifolium, commonly known as Hornbeam Maple, is a deciduous tree species native to Japan and Korea. It typically grows up to 10-15 meters tall and has a narrow, conical shape with a dense canopy of small, serrated leaves that turn from green to yellow-orange in the fall. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring, which develop into winged samaras that disperse in the fall. Hornbeam Maple is often grown as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks due to its attractive foliage and shape.

Acer Nigrum (Black Maple)

Acer Nigrum, commonly known as Black Maple, is a species of deciduous tree native to eastern North America. It is closely related to the more common Sugar Maple and is valued for its hard, dense wood and attractive, dark green foliage that turns brilliant shades of yellow and red in the fall. The Black Maple is also known for its ability to thrive in a variety of soils and growing conditions, making it a popular choice for landscaping and forestry.

Acer Leucoderme (Chalk Maple)

Acer Leucoderme, commonly known as Chalk Maple, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree native to the eastern United States. Its bark is pale and chalky, giving the tree its name. It has green, lobed leaves that turn bright yellow and orange in the fall, making it a popular ornamental tree. The Chalk Maple also produces small, winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind. It is a hardy tree that is tolerant of a range of soil types and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade.

Acer Miyabei (Miyabe Maple)

Acer Miyabei, commonly known as Miyabe Maple, is a deciduous tree species native to Japan, China, and Korea. It typically grows up to 30 feet tall with a rounded crown and attractive green foliage that turns yellow to orange in the fall. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray when young, but it develops attractive, peeling layers as it matures. Miyabe Maples are commonly planted as ornamental trees in parks and gardens due to their beautiful appearance and hardiness.

Acer Laurinum (Shanxi Maple)

Acer Laurinum, commonly known as Shanxi Maple, is a deciduous tree species native to China. It can grow up to 20 meters tall with a broad crown and attractive foliage that turns bright red in the autumn. The tree is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its striking appearance. It is also valued for its timber, which is used in furniture making and construction.

Acer Cappadocicum (Cappadocian Maple)

Acer Cappadocicum, commonly known as Cappadocian Maple, is a deciduous tree species native to southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia. It is valued for its ornamental and shade-providing qualities, as well as its hardy nature and adaptability to a range of soil types and growing conditions. The tree has a broad, rounded crown and typically grows to a height of 50-70 feet (15-21 meters). Its leaves are large and five-lobed, turning a brilliant yellow or orange in the fall. The Cappadocian Maple produces small, yellow-green flowers in the spring, which are followed by winged seeds that mature in the fall.

Acer Monspessulanum (Montpellier Maple)

Acer Monspessulanum, also known as Montpellier Maple, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree or shrub commonly found in the Mediterranean region. It has a rounded crown, and its leaves are deeply lobed and bright green. In the fall, the foliage turns a stunning shade of yellow or red. This species is valued for its ornamental qualities and is often used in landscaping and as a street tree. It also produces small, winged fruits that are popular with birds and other wildlife.

Acer Griseum (Paperbark Maple)

Acer Griseum, commonly known as Paperbark Maple, is a deciduous tree species native to central China. It is named after its distinctive bark that peels off in thin, paper-like sheets, revealing cinnamon-colored new bark underneath. The tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and has dark green leaves that turn bright red in the fall. It is a popular ornamental tree in gardens and parks due to its beautiful appearance and low maintenance requirements.

Acer Buergerianum (Trident Maple)

Acer Buergerianum, also known as Trident Maple, is a deciduous tree native to China, Korea, and Japan. It is a popular ornamental tree due to its striking three-lobed leaves, which turn red, orange, and yellow in the fall. The tree grows to a height of 20-30 feet and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is a hardy and adaptable species, tolerating a wide range of soil types and growing conditions. It is often used as a bonsai specimen due to its small leaves and attractive bark.

Acer Tataricum (Tatarian Maple)

Acer Tataricum, commonly known as Tatarian Maple, is a deciduous tree species that belongs to the family Sapindaceae. Native to Asia and southeastern Europe, it is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in many parts of the world. The tree typically grows up to 20-30 feet tall and produces attractive, lobed leaves that turn vibrant shades of red and orange in the fall. It also bears small, yellowish-white flowers in the spring, which give way to clusters of winged seeds known as samaras.

Acer Macrophyllum (Bigleaf Maple)

Acer Macrophyllum, commonly known as Bigleaf Maple, is a species of deciduous tree native to western North America. It is renowned for its large leaves, which can reach up to 30 cm in diameter, and its striking autumn foliage. Bigleaf Maples can grow up to 50 meters tall and have a broad, spreading canopy. They are important components of Pacific Northwest ecosystems, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife and serving as a source of food and medicine for Indigenous peoples.

Acer Ginnala (Amur Maple)

Acer Ginnala, commonly known as Amur Maple, is a small, deciduous tree native to northeastern Asia. It is highly valued for its stunning fall foliage, which ranges from bright yellow to orange-red, and its attractive, compact form. The tree produces small, fragrant white flowers in the spring, followed by red samaras in the summer. It is a hardy species that is adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions and is often used in landscaping and as a bonsai tree.

Acer Campestre (Field Maple)

Acer Campestre, commonly known as Field Maple, is a deciduous tree species that is native to most parts of Europe and parts of Asia. It is a medium-sized tree that typically grows up to 20-25 meters tall with a rounded crown and grey-brown bark. The leaves are small, lobed, and green, turning yellow in the fall. Field Maples produce small, greenish-yellow flowers in spring, followed by winged seeds in autumn. They are commonly used in parks and gardens as ornamental trees, and their wood is used in the manufacture of furniture, flooring, and musical instruments.

Acer Negundo (Box Elder)

Acer Negundo, commonly known as Box Elder, is a species of maple tree native to North America. It is a relatively fast-growing deciduous tree that can reach up to 25 meters in height. The tree has a light gray bark that is smooth when young, but becomes ridged as it matures. Its leaves are compound, with 3-7 leaflets that are serrated and green in color, turning yellow in the fall.

The Box Elder produces winged samaras, or “helicopter seeds,” that are often dispersed by wind. It is commonly found in wet areas such as stream banks and floodplains. While it is considered a nuisance by some due to its weak wood and invasive tendencies, it is also valued for its ornamental qualities and ability to provide shade.

Acer Palmatum (Japanese Maple)

Acer Palmatum, commonly known as the Japanese Maple, is a deciduous tree species native to Japan, Korea, and China. It is widely grown as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks for its striking foliage that changes color with the seasons, ranging from bright green in the spring and summer to vibrant red, orange, or yellow in the fall. The tree typically grows to a height of 6–10 meters and has a spreading canopy with delicate, finely cut leaves. Japanese Maple is a popular choice for bonsai cultivation due to its small size and graceful appearance.

Acer Pseudoplatanus (Sycamore Maple)

Acer Pseudoplatanus, commonly known as Sycamore Maple, is a deciduous tree species native to central Europe and southwestern Asia. It can grow up to 35 meters tall and has a broad, rounded crown with dense foliage. The bark is smooth and grey, becoming scaly as the tree matures.

Its leaves are large and deeply lobed, with a characteristic palmate shape, and turn a golden-yellow color in the autumn. Sycamore Maple produces winged fruits called samaras, which can be dispersed by the wind over long distances. It is a popular ornamental tree in parks and gardens and is also used for timber, as its wood is hard and durable.

Acer Platanoides (Norway Maple)

Acer Platanoides, commonly known as Norway Maple, is a deciduous tree native to Europe and western Asia and widely planted as an ornamental and shade tree in North America. The tree features large, lobed leaves that turn yellow, orange, or red in the fall and produces clusters of yellow-green flowers in the spring, followed by winged seeds called samaras.

The Norway Maple is known for its dense shade and tolerance of urban pollution, making it a popular choice for landscaping and street planting. However, it can also be invasive in some areas, outcompeting native species and disrupting local ecosystems.

Acer Rubrum (Red Maple)

Acer Rubrum, commonly known as Red Maple, is a deciduous tree native to eastern North America. It is a fast-growing species that can reach heights of up to 100 feet and has a broad, oval-shaped canopy. The tree is prized for its striking red foliage in the fall and early spring and its small red flowers that bloom in early spring. Red Maple is a popular ornamental tree and also has commercial value for its wood, which is used for furniture, flooring, and other applications. It is also an important source of food for wildlife, including birds and squirrels.

Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple)

Acer Saccharum, commonly known as Sugar Maple, is a deciduous tree species native to the eastern regions of North America. It is highly valued for its sweet sap, which is used to produce maple syrup and other maple products. Sugar Maples can reach heights of up to 100 feet and have distinctive five-lobed leaves that turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall. They are a popular landscaping tree and also provide important habitat for many species of wildlife.

How To Grow And Care For Acer

Acer, commonly known as maples, are deciduous trees or shrubs that are popular for their beautiful foliage, vibrant autumn colors, and ornamental qualities. Here are some tips for growing and caring for Acer:

• Site selection: Choose a site that receives full to partial sunlight and well-draining soil. Planting shouldn’t be done in soil that is prone to flooding or has inadequate drainage.

• Watering: Newly planted maples need regular watering until they are established. Afterward, they should be watered regularly during the growing season, particularly during periods of drought. Verify that the ground is moist but not drenched.

• Fertilizing: Maples benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Apply fertilizer in the spring and summer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Pruning: Maples should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood. You can also thin out overcrowded branches to improve airflow and sunlight penetration.

• Pests and diseases: Maples can be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and powdery mildew. Monitor your trees regularly and treat any infestations promptly with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.

• Mulching: Mulch around the base of the tree with a layer of organic material, such as wood chips or leaf litter. This aids in controlling soil temperature, weed suppression, and moisture retention.

• Winter protection: Some species of maple are hardy, while others may need protection from frost or freezing temperatures. This promotes soil temperature control, weed control, and moisture retention.

With proper care and maintenance, your Acer should thrive and provide years of enjoyment with its striking beauty.

How To Propagate Acer

Acer, commonly known as maple trees, can be propagated through various methods, including seed germination, cuttings, and layering. Here are some steps to propagate Acer:

• Seed Germination: Collect seeds from a mature maple tree in the fall. Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 to 48 hours to help with germination. Then, plant the seeds in a pot or directly in the ground during the fall or early spring. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist.

• Cuttings: Take cuttings from a healthy, mature Acer tree in the spring or summer. Cut a inch branch from the tree and remove any leaves from the bottom of the cutting. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with a mixture of sand and peat moss. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm, shaded area until it has rooted.

• Layering: Choose a low branch on a mature Acer tree and gently scrape off a section of bark on the underside of the branch. Bend the branch down and secure it to the ground with a stake. Cover the scraped area with soil and keep it moist. The branch will eventually root and can be cut from the parent tree and transplanted.

It’s important to note that Acer trees grown from seed may not produce the same characteristics as the parent tree, while those propagated from cuttings or layering will produce clones of the parent tree.

Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Acer

Q: What is Acer?
A: Acer, commonly known as Maple, is a genus of trees and shrubs native to the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Acer trees are known for their colorful foliage and are popular as ornamental plants in gardens and parks.

Q: How do I care for my Acer tree?
A: Acer trees require well-drained soil, regular watering, and protection from strong winds. They prefer partial shade to full sun and benefit from occasional fertilization. It’s also important to prune your Acer tree to maintain its shape and health.

Q: When is the best time to plant Acer trees?
A: The best time to plant Acer trees is in the fall or early spring, when the weather is cool and moist. This enables the roots to take root before the scorching summer months.

Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Acer trees?
A: Acer trees are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, verticillium wilt, and tar spot fungus. These problems can be prevented and controlled with routine inspection and treatment.

Q: Can Acer trees be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Acer trees can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the tree’s root system. It’s important to use well-draining soil and to water and fertilize the tree regularly. Container-grown Acer trees may also benefit from occasional pruning to maintain their shape and size.

Top 10 Interesting Facts About Acer

1. Acer, also known as the Maple tree, is a genus of trees and shrubs that includes approximately 128 species.
2. The word “Acer” is derived from the Latin word acris,” which means “sharp” or “pointed,” a reference to the leaves of the Maple tree.
3. The leaves of Maple trees are known for their vibrant colors in the fall, ranging from bright reds to oranges and yellows.
4. Maple trees are popular in the production of maple syrup, a sweet and sticky syrup made from the sap of the tree.
5. The Acer platanoides, or Norway Maple, is known for its invasive nature and is considered a pest species in some regions.
6. The Acer rubrum, or Red Maple, is the state tree of Rhode Island, and the Acer saccharum, or Sugar Maple, is the state tree of New York, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
7. Due to its toughness and appealing grain patterns, maple wood is frequently used in furniture, flooring, and musical instruments.
8. Some species of Maple trees, such as the Acer palmatum, or Japanese Maple, are prized for their ornamental value in gardens and landscaping.
9. The Acer negundo, or Box Elder, is often planted in urban areas due to its tolerance of pollution and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions.
10. Maple trees are important in many cultures, and are featured prominently in Canadian iconography, including the country’s flag and national anthem.