Overview
Acer monspessulanum is a bushy trees in the genus Acer, part of the Sapindaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 8-12 metres tall and 4-8 metres wide, reaching full size in around 10-20 years. Acer monspessulanum 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, cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens. It is native to SE Europe to W Asia.
About
A compact, rounded small tree that can reach up to 8 meters tall, featuring thick, shiny, dark green foliage. In spring, it produces abundant yellow-green flowers arranged in drooping clusters, which are succeeded by red-winged fruits during the summer.
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
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 monspessulanum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 8-12 metres
- Spread
- 4-8 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- SE Europe to W Asia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Acer monspessulanum
- Cultivation
- Grow in any moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
- 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
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Acer monspessulanum?
Grow in any moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade.
Where is the best place to plant Acer monspessulanum?
Acer monspessulanum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Acer monspessulanum need?
Acer monspessulanum 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.
How do I prune Acer monspessulanum?
Pruning group 1 from late autumn to midwinter only.
How big does Acer monspessulanum grow?
Acer monspessulanum reaches a height of 8-12 metres and a spread of 4-8 metres. It takes around 10-20 years to reach full size.
Is Acer monspessulanum hardy in the UK?
Acer monspessulanum has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Acer monspessulanum?
Propagate by seed (trees and shrubs), layering in autumn, grafting in late winter or softwood cuttings in early summer.