Acer oliverianum aka Oliver Maple

Taxonomy

Acer oliverianum, commonly known as Oliver's maple or Oliver maple, is a broadleaf deciduous tree that can also be found as a large shrub. It typically reaches a height of about 8 meters, although it can grow up to 20 meters in the wilderness areas of Taiwan. The tree has a smooth jade green bark with fine white waxy stripes, resembling the Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum). The leaves of Acer oliverianum are opposite and simple, measuring 6 to 10 cm across. They are palmate and 5-lobed, with ovate lobes and finely reticulate minor veins. During autumn, the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and purple. In spring, pale yellow flowers with five white petals and eight longer stamens bloom on long stalks. These flowers are followed by brown winged fruits that spread at a wide angle. The tree's bark is greyish-brown and smooth, while the branchlets are glabrous and can range in color from purplish-red to greenish. Acer oliverianum flowers in May, coinciding with the unfolding of its leaves, and fruits in October.

Common names

Oliver Maple, Oliver's Maple

How to care for Oliver Maple

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Oliver Maple is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Oliver Maple should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

If you're planting Oliver Maple, you need to make sure you use a potting soil that can retain moisture. While the soil should still be able to drain well, it should contain plenty of organic matter like coco coir or sphagnum moss to help it stay moist and nourish the roots of your plants. This is especially important since Oliver Maple is especially sensitive to dry soil. You can also add other amendments, such as compost, to help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients to your plants. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. With the right soil and proper care, your Oliver Maple will thrive!

Lighting

Oliver 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 Oliver's Maple will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The Oliver Maple is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.


More info:
Wikipedia