Trident Maple
acer buergerianum
Also known as: ["Three-toothed Maple","Buerger's Maple"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to East Asia, known for its three-lobed leaves and vibrant autumn colors.
Benefits & Perks
["seasonal color change","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Acer |
| Botanical Name: | Acer buergerianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot, or large container
- 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, slightly acidic soil mix with organic matter; e.g., cactus mix with added compost.
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 necessary to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid leaf scorch; protect from direct midday sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor/outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; check drainage before planting.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; thrives in moderate humidity.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or coarse sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth typically appears after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and shaping cuts to maintain structure.
Pruning Plan
Shape the tree, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage a strong framework; prune to maintain desired size and form.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sharp knife, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and preventing root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting; stunted growth; bud failure to open.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 32°F (0°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in winter; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; reduced vigor; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); cease fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAcer buergerianum is not toxic to cats. This species does not pose a risk of poisoning to felines through ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAcer buergerianum is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this species.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAcer buergerianum, commonly known as Trident Maple, is not considered toxic to humans. It does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does the Trident Maple grow?
A: It typically reaches 15–25 feet in height, though it can grow taller in ideal conditions.
Q: Does the Trident Maple require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, making it adaptable to various light conditions.
Q: Is the Trident Maple suitable for bonsai?
A: Yes, its small leaves and manageable growth make it an excellent candidate for bonsai cultivation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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