Acer buergerianum var. formosanum

RHS Plant Profile
Taiwanese trident maple
Trees

Small, deciduous, bushy tree 10-12m in height, with glossy green 3-lobed leaves, grey-green beneath, with heart-shaped bases. The young growth is glossy red and the autumn colour of orange, red and purple is late in the season. Bears upright flower stems of pale yellow flowers in spring followed by brown winged fruits. Mature trees have red-brown flaking bark

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Sand, Loam

Max Height

8-12 metres

Max Spread

2.5-4 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
2.5-4 metres
Max Height
8-12 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Sand Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Sapindaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Acer can be deciduous trees or large shrubs with paired, often palmately-lobed leaves and small flowers followed by characteristic winged fruits. Many have fine autumn colour, and some have ornamental stems
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Can be kept compact in large containers, suitable for bonsai cultivation. See tree cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed (trees and shrubs), layering in autumn, grafting in late winter or softwood cuttings in early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Patio and container plants

Pruning

Pruning group 1 from late autumn to midwinter only

Pests

May be susceptible to Acer gall mite, aphids, caterpillars and horse chestnut scale

Diseases

May be susceptible to Verticillium wilt, Acer leaf scorch and honey fungus