Acer distylum aka Lime Leaved Maple

Acer distylum prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry periods to keep the soil from drying out completely, especially during the growing season. Young trees need more frequent watering until established. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root problems.

Acer distylum is adaptable to various soil types including light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils. It performs best in mildly acidic to neutral pH but can tolerate mildly alkaline conditions. However, alkaline soils may cause iron-deficiency chlorosis (yellowing leaves). Good drainage is essential despite the preference for moisture.

Acer distylum is a medium-sized deciduous tree reaching 10-15 metres (33-49 feet) in height with a spread of 8 metres or more. It has a moderate growth rate and typically takes 20-50 years to reach full maturity. The tree forms an irregular crown with yellow-gray branches. Under less favorable conditions, it may remain smaller as a large shrub.

Acer distylum is moderately cold-hardy, tolerating temperatures down to around -15°C (5°F) when dormant. It is rated RHS H5 (hardy in most of the UK) and suitable for USDA zones 6-9 and UK zone 7. It requires a period of winter cold for proper dormancy and growth. Protection from late spring frosts may benefit young leaves.

Seeds are the primary propagation method. Sow fresh seeds in autumn, or stratify stored seeds for 2-4 months at 1-8°C before spring sowing. Layering takes about 12 months and has good success rates. Softwood cuttings taken in summer are possible but considered difficult to establish commercially. Pre-soaking stored seeds for 24 hours before stratification improves germination.

Acer distylum flowers in May to June, producing small yellow-green flowers on erect spikes 7-10 cm long. The flowers are monoecious, meaning individual flowers are either male or female but both appear on the same tree. Following pollination, winged fruits (samaras) develop that are 3-3.5 cm long and ripen in October.

Acer distylum is monoecious, bearing separate male and female flowers on the same tree. This means a single tree can produce fruit without a pollination partner. The small flowers are primarily pollinated by insects attracted to the spring blooms. Hermaphrodite flower forms also occasionally occur in some specimens.

Acer distylum may be susceptible to acer gall mite, aphids, caterpillars, and horse chestnut scale. Disease concerns include Verticillium wilt (a serious soil-borne fungal disease), acer leaf scorch, and honey fungus. Iron-deficiency chlorosis can occur in alkaline soils, causing yellowing between leaf veins.

Acer distylum is an outdoor tree suited to USDA zones 6-9 and UK zone 7. It thrives in temperate climates with cold winters and performs well in east, south, or west-facing positions in both exposed and sheltered locations. It requires outdoor conditions to complete its dormancy cycle and is not suitable for container growing long-term due to its eventual size of 10-15 metres.

Acer distylum requires minimal pruning. Follow RHS pruning group 1 guidelines, which means only removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain a healthy framework. Prune only between late autumn and mid-winter when the tree is dormant, as maples bleed sap heavily if pruned during active growth in spring or summer.

The cultivar 'Lemon Lime Lace' is a notable selection featuring lemon-yellow leaves that transition to yellow-green in sun or lime green in shade. In autumn, the foliage changes to orange and yellow tones. This variety forms an irregular mound with semi-pendulous branches, offering enhanced ornamental value compared to the straight species.

As a deciduous tree, Acer distylum drops its leaves in autumn after displaying rich amber-yellow fall color. In winter, the tree is dormant and requires no special care. Spring brings new foliage and flowers in May-June. During summer, ensure consistent moisture and watch for signs of heat stress or pest damage. Mulching helps retain soil moisture year-round.

The sap of Acer distylum is edible and can be tapped in late winter/early spring. It can be consumed as a fresh drink or boiled down to make maple syrup. However, the sugar concentration is considerably lower than that of sugar maples (Acer saccharum), so larger quantities of sap are needed to produce syrup. PFAF rates edibility as 2 out of 5.

Beyond its ornamental value, maple leaves including those of Acer distylum may have preservative properties. When layered with stored produce such as apples, carrots, and potatoes, the leaves can help extend storage life. PFAF rates other uses as 1 out of 5, indicating limited practical applications beyond ornamental and minor edible use.