Acer argutum

Acer argutum is a deciduous tree from Japan. Its native range includes the islands of Honshu and Shikoku. It belongs to the soapberry family, Sapindaceae. It grows in cool temperate forests and near the lower subalpine zone. Wild trees favour damp places beside streams. Recorded sites lie at elevations of 2,625–6,234 feet [800–1,900 metres]. The species reaches about 26 feet [8 metres] in height.

Flowers appear in April, and seeds ripen in October. The species is dioecious: each tree bears either male or female flowers. A lone tree cannot produce seed through self-fertilisation. Grow both sexes where seed production matters. Its deciduous habit means it loses its leaves each year. The supplied species evidence gives no further leaf, bark, or fruit details.

In gardens, this tree prefers moist soil with good drainage. A sunny site suits it, though it also tolerates some shade. It prefers shade around its trunk. PFAF describes it as easy to grow. It accepts sandy soil, loam, and clay, including heavy clay. It can grow in mildly acid, neutral, or mildly alkaline ground. PFAF lists USDA hardiness zones 4–8. Suitable garden settings include woodland planting, sunny woodland edges, and dappled shade. These settings offer a place for a tree from moist forest habitats.

The sap has food uses, though PFAF gives edibility a modest rating. It contains sugar and can serve as a drink. Boiling removes water and turns the sap into syrup. The syrup can then sweeten other foods. Trunks are tapped in early spring. Sap flows best on warm, sunny days after frost. Cold winters in continental climates favour sap production. Leaves also have a reported storage use. People pack them around apples and root crops to help preserve them. PFAF records no known hazards or medicinal uses. That hazard entry does not establish safety for pets.

Seed offers one route to raising new trees. Sow ripe seed in a cold frame for possible spring germination. Stored seed needs a day of soaking before cold treatment. PFAF recommends two to four months at 1–8°C. Germination may still take time. Seed gathered before full development may fail or yield weak seedlings. Grow seedlings in separate pots before planting them out. They should reach at least 0.7 feet [0.2 metres] first.