About

Acer caudatifolium is a small to medium-sized tree, typically growing to about 12 meters in height when cultivated. Its bark is smooth and varies from green to reddish-green, featuring subtle white stripes. The leaves are a dull green on the upper surface and lighter beneath, generally unlobed with serrated edges, though some may exhibit three shallow lobes. Individual leaves can reach dimensions of up to 11 cm in length and 4.5 cm in width, tapering to a pointed tip and transitioning to shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall. In spring, the tree produces racemes of small flowers that range from purple to white, which are succeeded by reddish, winged fruits that mature to a yellow hue by 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, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
North-facing, West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
8-12 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Architectural, Cottage and informal garden
Native to
Taiwan

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in a moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by grafting
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