Acer laurinum

RHS Plant Profile
laurel maple
Shrubs Trees

A large, tropical evergreen tree, about 30m tall in the wild, but forming a small tree or large shrub in British gardens, and suitable only for the mildest counties. Coppery-red young leaves mature to glossy green, 17cm long and grey-silver beneath, Yellowish flowers from mid summer to early autumn are followed by yellow-brown winged fruits, produced until early winter

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Sand, Loam

Max Height

Higher than 12 metres

Max Spread

wider than 8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
wider than 8 metres
Max Height
Higher than 12 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Sapindaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
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 a fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun with shelter from cold winds. Suitable for frost-free locations only. Can be grown short-term in a container and overwintered in a frost-free greenhouse or conservatory

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

  • Architectural
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Sub-tropical
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Very little to no pruning required. For more advice refer to pruning group 1.

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