About

Acer buergerianum 'Shirley Debacq' is an upright, deciduous tree that reaches heights of 8 to 10 meters. Its leaves are triangular with three lobes, initially displaying a bronzy hue before transitioning to a deep green throughout the summer. In the fall, the foliage shifts to shades of orange-yellow and red. During spring, this variety produces upright clusters of pale yellow flowers, which are succeeded by brownish winged fruits in the autumn.

About the genus

Acer consists of deciduous trees or sizable shrubs featuring pairs of leaves that are frequently palmately lobed. These plants produce small flowers that give way to distinctive winged fruits. Numerous species display vibrant autumn foliage, while certain varieties also exhibit decorative stems.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Sand, Loam
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
8-12 metres
Spread
2.5-4 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. See tree cultivation for further advice
Pruning
Pruning group 1, if necessary, from late autumn to midwinter only
Propagation
Propagate by grafting in late winter or softwood cuttings in early summer
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to Acer gall mite, aphids, caterpillars and horse chestnut scale
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to Verticillium wilt, Acer leaf scorch and honey fungus