Acer oliverianum aka Oliver Maple

Acer oliverianum belongs to the Sapindaceae family. This tree drops its leaves each year. People call it Oliver maple or Chinese maple. It is native to Tibet, central and southern China. Its range also spans northern Vietnam and Taiwan. In China, it grows in forests and valleys. Oregon State records it at sites in the mountains. It looks like Japanese maple but is a separate species.

This maple grows as a small tree or large shrub. Its crown spreads, and its branches reach out almost level. Garden sources give heights of around 15–26 feet [4.5–8 metres]. The RHS lists a spread of 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. Chicago reports larger trees at 30 feet [9.1 metres]. These trees reach that size in both height and width. The bark is smooth and green. It has thin white stripes with a waxy coat. Young shoots have a purple-green tint. The RHS says it takes 10–20 years to reach maturity.

The leaves grow in pairs across from each other. Each leaf has five lobes, or main parts. Leaves on young shoots may have three or four lobes. Fine teeth line the edges. Small veins form a net. The tops shine green, and the undersides have no hairs. In fall, leaves turn yellow, orange, red or purple. Small flowers open on long stalks in March and April. Sources describe pale yellow flowers or flowers with white petals. Those with white petals have reddish-purple sepals around them. The flowers add little to the garden display. Brown samaras, or winged fruits, follow the flowers. Their wings spread at a broad angle.

Grow it in rich soil that stays moist but drains well. The RHS lists clay, loam, sand and chalk as suitable. It accepts acid, neutral and alkaline soil. Most sources advise full sun or part shade. Oregon State also lists shade as suitable. Choose a site with shelter. USDA ratings centre on zones 7–9. Oregon State also mentions zone 6. The RHS gives it a UK rating of H6. Its fall leaves suit use as a specimen tree. They also suit informal gardens. Missouri Botanical Garden lists low upkeep and medium water needs.

Missouri Botanical Garden reports no serious pest or disease problems. The RHS still lists pests that may occur. These include aphids, caterpillars and maple gall mites. Horse chestnut scale is another possible pest. Wilt, leaf scorch and honey fungus may also occur. Missouri Botanical Garden lists resistance to rabbits and black walnut. Prune only as needed, from late autumn through midwinter. You can grow new plants from seed. Other ways include layering in autumn and grafting in late winter. Softwood cuttings are another choice in early summer.