Acer buergerianum - Maple

Acer buergerianum, also known as Trident Maple, is a botanical species native to China.This beautiful slow-growing tree is extremely long-lived. It will eventually reach a height of about 10m (32.81°F). It is distinguished by its bright green trilobed foliage, which turns into a spectacular carmine red in autumn. Give it a prime location, not far from the house, to take full advantage its summer shade and beautiful foliage. It can also be incorporated into a loose hedge. Hardy down to -17°C (62.6°F), it thrives in full sun or partial shade in ordinary soil, preferably acidic and humus-rich. While a mature and well-established specimen can tolerate dry soil, it will not tolerate soil that is too chalky, heavy, or waterlogged. Buerger's Maple is very popular with bonsai enthusiasts.

Originating in the deciduous forests of eastern China, Acer buergerianum is a vigorous species that is resistant to cold and thrives in light woodland in humus-rich, non-calcareous soils that retain some moisture throughout the year. This small deciduous tree, belonging to the large family of Aceraceae, grows very slowly, reaching an average height of 10m (32.81 ft) with a spread of about 8m (26.25 ft) at maturity. Initially, it has a conical upright habit, which becomes more rounded with age. It has a rough, dark grey-brown bark with orange tones. Over time, the bark darkens and cracks. The deciduous leaves are carried on green-red petioles (stalks) up to 5cm (2 in) in length. They are divided into 3 pointed lobes and can measure up to 8cm (3.1 in) long and 6cm (2.4 in) wide. They are light green in spring, then dark green as they mature, before turning various shades of yellow, orange, and red in autumn before they fall. In April-May, corymbs of insignificant small yellow-green flowers appear. They are followed in August by fruits called samara.

The Trident Maple is a small tree that thrives in partial shade, non-calcareous, humus-rich, moist soils. If your garden can provide these conditions, it will become the centrepiece. This maple, witha moderate growth rate, will be at home in medium-sized gardens, either as a free-standing specimen or in the centre of an ericaceous bed surrounded by understated perennials such as hostas, ferns, or bleeding hearts. Choose its location carefully, preferably not too far from the house and visible from a window to fully enjoy its autumnal beauty and the coolness of its shade in summer.