Montpelier Maple
acer monspessulanum
Also known as: ["Montpellier Maple","Three-lobed Maple"]
Overview
A small deciduous tree or large shrub native to the Mediterranean region, characterized by its three-lobed leaves and small, greenish-yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Acer |
| Botanical Name: | Acer monspessulanum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with good structure.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some protection from intense midday sun in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in intense summer sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8; tolerates temperatures between -20°C to 30°C; prefers cool winters and moderate summers.
Protect from frost in early spring; avoid placing near heat sources in winter; ensure good air circulation in summer.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or softwood cuttings in early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for cuttings; autumn for seeds after collection.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; peat moss for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination can take several weeks to months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle, heating mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain high humidity for cuttings; be patient with seed germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to control size; avoid excessive pruning in late summer.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage healthy growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the canopy.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young trees to encourage growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or drop; growth may slow or stop; young or newly planted trees are more vulnerable.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots; protect with burlap in severe cold; avoid planting in exposed, windy sites.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; soil may dry out quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; use appropriate fertilizer; apply at recommended rate; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer or fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the seeds or bark of Acer monspessulanum. The toxic compounds are not highly potent but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of the seeds and bark of Acer monspessulanum may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins and other irritants.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAcer monspessulanum, commonly known as Montpellier maple, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The toxicity is primarily localized to the seeds and bark, which contain saponins and other irritants.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Acer monspessulanum suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, due to its relatively small size, it is well-suited for smaller garden spaces.
Q: Does this maple attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and seeds.
Q: How toxic is this plant to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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