About

Acer buergerianum var. formosanum is a compact, deciduous tree that typically reaches heights of 10 to 12 meters. Its leaves are glossy green, featuring three lobes and heart-shaped bases, with a grey-green underside. Young shoots exhibit a glossy red hue, while the foliage transforms to shades of orange, red, and purple in the autumn, displaying this change later in the season. In spring, the tree produces upright flower spikes that bear pale yellow blooms, which are succeeded by brown, winged fruits. The bark of mature specimens is characterized by its red-brown color and distinctive flaking texture.

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

Bushy

Foliage

Deciduous

Height

8-12 metres

Spread

2.5-4 metres

Time to full height

10-20 years

Suggested uses

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

Care notes

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

Pruning

Pruning group 1 from late autumn to midwinter only

Propagation

Propagate by seed (trees and shrubs), layering in autumn, 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