About

Acer davidii 'Robin Herbert' is a small deciduous tree, reaching heights of 8 to 10 meters. It features arching branches and distinctive bark patterned with green and white stripes. The tree showcases large, glossy dark green leaves that transition to orange-yellow shades in the fall. In spring, it produces pale yellow flowers in racemes, followed by pinkish-brown fruits. This cultivar is named in honor of a former president of the Royal Horticultural Society.

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, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
8-12 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

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 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