Rocky Maple Acer glabrum

A deciduous shrub or small shade tree with smooth bark in the Sapindaceae (soapberry) family.  Grows well in a woodland garden.  Glabrum means smooth, without hair, referring to its smooth stems and leaves. The species is named after David Douglas, a Scottish botanist who in addition to this tree, is also known for the Douglas fir.

Prefers dappled shade, moist soils, and protection from the wind.  Can withstand sandy, loamy, and heavy clay soils, prefers well-drained soil and needs lots of organic matter and a low pH (acid). It performs best in semi-shade (light woodland) to shade. It prefers moist soil. It will benefit from being planted in a location sheltered from strong winds, frost, and afternoon sun.

It is primarily grown for its ornamental red fruit in the late summer and fall, its interesting red twigs  that stand out particularly in the winter and its knock out yellow-to-red fall color.  This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and should only be pruned in summer after the leaves have fully developed, as it may 'bleed' sap if pruned in late winter or early spring.   Works well for erosion control.

Seasons of Interest:

    Foliage:  Fall, yellow to red  Fruit: Late summer, red samara  Twigs: Winter, red

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant insect or disease problems.  Can show chlorosis of the leaves (yellowing) in alkaline (basic) soils.  Applying a layer of mulch around the root zone in summer and winter to conserve soil moisture and protect the roots in exposed locations or colder microclimates.