Acer sempervirens aka Cretan Maple

Acer sempervirens is the Cretan maple. It belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It comes from the eastern Mediterranean. Its range includes Greece, western Turkey and Lebanon. It grows as a large shrub or small tree. Its branches spread, and it grows slowly. Leaves may fall each year or stay through part of winter. Another name for it is evergreen maple. Yet it does not always keep its leaves.

Sources give a range of heights. Oregon State gives about 20 feet [6 metres], often less. The RHS gives heights of around 23–33 feet [7–10 metres]. Its listed garden range reaches 39 feet [12 metres]. Spread can reach 26 feet [8 metres]. The RHS gives 10–20 years to reach full size. These figures differ, so gardeners should leave room for a larger tree.

The small leaves are bright green and grow in opposite pairs. They are paler beneath and have no hairs. Each leaf has one blade. It may have no lobes or three lobes. Some leaf edges are smooth. Others have shallow waves or small teeth. Leaves can stay on the tree until late December. Some turn yellow or brown before they fall. Greenish-yellow flowers open in spring with the new leaves. They grow in small, upright groups called corymbs. Winged fruits follow the flowers. These brownish-red fruits are called samaras. Their wings may lie parallel or spread at an angle.

Grow this maple in rich soil that holds moisture but drains well. Give it full sun or part shade in a sheltered spot. The RHS lists clay, chalk, loam and sand as suitable soils. The tree also grows in acid, neutral and alkaline soil. The RHS rates its hardiness as H5. Oregon State lists it as hardy to USDA Zone 6. Use it in courtyards, coastal sites or informal planting. It can also form a hedge or screen. The RHS lists it for gardens that need little care.

Prune only when needed, from late autumn to midwinter. Grow new plants from seed or by layering in autumn. Other ways include grafting in late winter. You can also take softwood cuttings in early summer. Pests may include aphids and caterpillars. Acer gall mite and horse chestnut scale may also occur. Disease risks include Verticillium wilt and Acer leaf scorch. Honey fungus poses a risk too. The supplied sources give no evidence about edible parts or toxicity.