Cretan Maple
acer sempervirens
Also known as: ["Cretan Maple","Evergreen Maple"]
Overview
A small, evergreen maple species native to the Mediterranean region, particularly Crete and Turkey.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Acer |
| Botanical Name: | Acer sempervirens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot, or as a container plant in a sunny patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate 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; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning on young trees.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; 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 extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid frequent shallow watering, and adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use mulch to retain moisture and improve soil health; avoid heavy clay soils unless amended.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 6–8; prefers 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates brief frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring before new growth; use a balanced formula; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture and warmth for rooting.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use a peat-based medium.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment in new pot may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage vigorous growth; focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the canopy; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts; avoid repotting during dormancy or extreme weather.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining 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 fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the trunk, 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 every 7–10 days during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged freezing may lead to root injury.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with frost cloth or burlap in winter; avoid planting in low-lying frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor; may lead to premature leaf drop.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAcer sempervirens is not toxic to cats. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with ingestion of any part of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAcer sempervirens is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or toxic compounds in this plant that would cause harm to canines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAcer sempervirens, commonly known as the evergreen maple, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with ingestion of any part of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Acer sempervirens suitable for indoor growing?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation in Mediterranean climates.
Q: Does this maple species lose its leaves?
A: No, it is evergreen and retains its leaves year-round.
Q: How tall does Acer sempervirens grow?
A: It typically reaches 2–5 meters in height.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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