Vine Maple
acer circinatum
Also known as: ["Western Vine Maple","Roundleaf Maple"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to western North America, known for its delicate, circular leaves and vibrant autumn colors.
Benefits & Perks
["seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Acer |
| Botanical Name: | Acer circinatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, acidic, well-draining soil with organic matter like compost or peat moss.
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:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun, filtered afternoon light). Adjust for seasonal changes, providing more shade in hot summers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching. Place in dappled light or filtered shade, especially in hot climates. Indoors, position near an east-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from harsh afternoon sun
Avoid intense afternoon sun; provide shade during heatwaves; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-draining, acidic to neutral soil rich in organic matter
pH: Acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use acidic amendments; ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates cooler spring and fall conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; use a balanced formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in early summer or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to control size.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or crossing branches, and encourage airflow to reduce disease risk.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, compost, or pine bark to enhance acidity and drainage; incorporate perlite for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch (brown edges) in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback, especially if roots are not protected.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from frost with burlap or frost cloth; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat leads to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with drought.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use appropriate fertilizer; dilute correctly; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if applied monthly during growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Acer circinatum. While the plant is not highly toxic, ingestion can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Acer circinatum seeds or berries may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic, but ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAcer circinatum, or Vine Maple, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised due to potential irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Vine Maple grow?
A: It typically grows 15–20 feet tall, though it can reach up to 30 feet in ideal conditions.
Q: Does Vine Maple require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade, especially in hotter climates, but can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture.
Q: Is Vine Maple suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, its manageable size and attractive form make it a good choice for smaller landscapes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
