Overview
Acer discolor is a bushy shrubs in the genus Acer, part of the Sapindaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Acer discolor grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include architectural.
About
Acer discolor is a deciduous cultivar within the Acer genus, which comprises deciduous trees or sizable shrubs with pairs of often palmately lobed leaves and distinctive winged fruits. This bushy plant thrives in moist but well-drained soil and is best grown in a sheltered position with full sun or partial shade. It is hardy to UK zone H6 and suitable for various soil types and pH levels. Acer discolor is valued for its architectural qualities and provides seasonal interest throughout spring, summer, and autumn.
About the genus
Acer is a genus of trees and shrubs commonly known as maples. The genus is placed in the soapberry family Sapindaceae. There are approximately 132 species, most of which are native to East Asia, with a number also appearing in Europe, northern Africa, and North America.
Wikipedia contributors, "Maple", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Maple
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Acer
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Acer discolor size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs, Trees
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Architectural
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Acer discolor
- Propagation
- Propagate 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
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Acer discolor?
Acer discolor prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Acer discolor need?
Acer discolor is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
Is Acer discolor hardy in the UK?
Acer discolor has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Acer discolor?
Propagate by grafting.
More in the Acer genus
- Acer grosseri
- Acer palmatum 'Englishtown' (Dw)Japanese Maple
- Acer palmatum 'Hippy-fin-mo' (Dw)Japanese Maple
- Acer palmatum 'Korin' (A)Japanese Maple
- Acer shirasawanum 'Red Dawn'Shirasawa maple
