About
Acer opalus is a deciduous tree that can reach heights of 25 meters or more in its natural habitat, although it typically grows smaller when cultivated. The leaves are broad and shallowly divided into five lobes, displaying a glossy green surface with a downy texture on the underside. In early spring, before the foliage emerges, clusters of small yellow flowers bloom, giving way to winged seeds that may have a hint of silvery pink. In autumn, the leaves transition to shades of yellow and rusty orange.
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, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- Higher than 12 metres
- Spread
- wider than 8 metres
- Time to full height
- 20-50 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in moisture-retentive, well-drained soil in sun or part shade
- Pruning
- Minimal pruning required; see pruning group 1. Prune from late autumn to mid-winter only
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed in autumn or spring, or by softwood cuttings in 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