About

Acer forrestii is a spreading tree that can reach heights of up to 10 meters. Its branches have an arching form and are initially red, transitioning to green with distinctive white stripes as they mature. The wide, three-lobed leaves emerge with a reddish hue, shifting to a dark green during the summer months and displaying orange-red tones in the fall. In spring, the tree produces clusters of small flowers that are red and green, which are followed by two-winged fruit that is green and pink in color.

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
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, West-facing, South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Spreading branched
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
8-12 metres
Spread
wider than 8 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Cottage and informal garden
Native to
China

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil with shelter from cold, drying wind
Pruning
Pruning group 1, from late autumn to mid-winter
Propagation
Propagate by seed
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