About

Acer circinatum is a bushy small tree or large shrub characterized by its rounded leaves, which are divided into 7 to 9 lobes and display hues of red or orange in the fall. This species produces clusters of small purplish flowers, which are succeeded by red-winged fruits.

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
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
4-8 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden
Native to
N America, British Columbia to California

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in a moist but well-drained soil
Pruning
Pruning group 1; prune only from late autumn to midwinter when dormant, remove misplaced or crossing shoots to maintain permanent healthy framework
Propagation
Propagate by seed (sown outdoors) as soon as ripe, by grafting in late winter, or by chip budding in mid- to late 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