Acer aka Maple

Taxonomy

Acer is a diverse genus of trees and shrubs commonly known as maples. These plants are renowned for their beautiful autumn leaf color, although a few in southern Asia and the Mediterranean region remain evergreen. One specific variety is the 'Serpentine,' a deciduous snakebark maple that forms a small tree with white-striped purple bark on its younger branches. Its oval leaves are attached to red stalks, and while it doesn't exhibit much autumn color, it compensates with yellow flowers in drooping racemes during spring. Maples, in general, can grow to heights ranging from 10 to 45 meters, although some species are shrubs with multiple trunks. Apart from their aesthetic value, maples are also significant as sources of syrup and wood, with dried wood often utilized for smoking food. Additionally, it's worth noting that Acer Inc., a computer company based in Taiwan, shares the same name but is unrelated to the plant genus.

Common names

Maple

How to care for Maple

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Maple, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Lighting

Maple requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Maple will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for Maple plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.


More info:
Wikipedia