Acer rubrum (ay’-sir ru’-brum)
Family: Sapindaceae, Soapberry
Key Steps
- 1a – Opposite leaf arrangement on stem — go to 2
- 2a – Leaf simple — go to 3
- 3a – Leaves are lobed — go to 4
- 2a – Leaf simple — go to 3
Description
Leaf: Usually 3 lobes, rarely 5. Base of middle lobe is wide. Sinuses are slightly toothed and not deep. Bright green above, light silvery gray and hairy veins beneath. Petioles often red.
Bud: Rounded and slightly hairy bud scale margins. Round flower buds are clustered, bright red.
Leaf Scar: Narrow.
Stem: Slender, bright red in winter, greenish-red in summer. Older stems grayish. Stems do not smell.
Pith: Solid, white.
Bark: Young: smooth, light gray. Older: dark gray and rough; does not flake off as much as silver maple.
Flower: Red, blooming before leaves appear. Short dense clusters. Petals.
Fruit: 2-3 inch long double samara, wings spreading at 60° angle.
Habit: Large shade tree, spreading branches, to 40+ feet tall.
Culture: Due to iron chlorosis (yellowing of leaves with veins remaining green) avoid planting on alkaline soils. High moisture preferred.
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