Rocky Mountain Maple
acer glabrum
Also known as: ["Dwarf Maple","Rocky Mountain Maple"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to western North America, known for its attractive foliage and adaptability to various habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Acer |
| Botanical Name: | Acer glabrum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–40–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to well-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
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.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates more shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid leaf scorch. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south or west-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend heavy soils with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates cold but may struggle in extreme heat.
Avoid placing near heat sources; protect from frost; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in early summer or seed propagation in autumn.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Early summer for cuttings; autumn for seeds after the plant has set fruit.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; well-draining seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination can take several weeks to months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open up the canopy; heading cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage healthy growth. Focus on structural improvement and air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above buds or branches; remove dead/diseased wood first.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; provide shade for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper 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 waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a 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 compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure and fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch (brown edges) in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; growth slows; branches may become brittle in freezing temperatures without protection.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots; protect from harsh winds; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage before fertilizing; use appropriate dilution; avoid fertilizing dormant plants.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if applied monthly during growing season. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAcer glabrum is generally non-toxic to cats. Ingestion of the seeds may lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation, but severe toxicity is not expected.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAcer glabrum is not considered toxic to dogs. The seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities, but serious toxicity is unlikely.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAcer glabrum, commonly known as Rocky Mountain Maple, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of the seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals due to their slightly astringent properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Acer glabrum suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it can be grown as a shrub or small tree, making it suitable for smaller spaces.
Q: Does Acer glabrum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it provides nectar for bees and butterflies and offers shelter for birds.
Q: How often should Acer glabrum be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings, especially during dry periods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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