Acer distylum aka Lime Leaved Maple

Acer distylum, also known as the lime-leaved maple or linden leaved maple, is a deciduous tree native to north Honshu Island of Japan. It belongs to the family Sapindaceae and is closely related to Acer nipponicum in the Acer section Parviflora. This unique species is characterized by its unlobed leaves, which grow to about 10-15 cm (4-6 in) in length, making it distinct from other maple species. The bark of Acer distylum is grayish with a pink hue in young specimens. It was first described by Philipp Franz von Siebold and Joseph Gerhard Zuccarini in 1845 and introduced to Europe by Charles Maries in 1879. Growing up to 12m in height, Acer distylum has large, broadly oval green leaves with a heart-shaped base and serrated edges. In spring, it produces small spikes of yellow-green flowers, followed by winged fruits. During autumn, the leaves turn a rich amber yellow color. One cultivar of Acer distylum, called 'Lemon Lime Lace', features lemon yellow leaves that transition to yellow-green in the sun or lime green in the shade. In fall, the foliage of this cultivar changes to orange and yellow, adding to its visual appeal. The tree forms an irregular mound with semi-pendulous branches. Acer distylum thrives in its native habitat, where it is found alongside other tree species such as the broad-leaved lime, European larch, and black poplar. It also marks the northern limit for Atlantic and sub-Atlantic plants like beech, sycamore, field maple, sessile oak, and crossed-leaved heath, which are characteristic of the Baltic coastland. In addition, it serves as the southern limit for rare northern plants such as the Swedish whitebeam, dwarf birch, and Lapland willow. The Casentinesi Forests, located on the boundary between Honshu and Emilia-Romagna, provide excellent conditions for Acer distylum's growth, with towering silver firs, centuries-old beeches, mountain maple, European aspen, lime tree, smooth-leaved elm, Turkey oak, and common hornbeam among the diverse range of trees found there.