Acer truncatum
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Acer truncatum

Shantung maple · Purple-blow maple · Shandong Maple · Manchurian paint maple

Tier 1 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun Toxicity: low
Water every
7 days
0
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 3–8
Click count
146
Observations
48

Description

Source: leafsnap

Acer truncatum, the Shantung maple, Shandong maple, or purpleblow maple, is a maple native to northern China, in the provinces of Gansu, Hebei, Henan, Jiangsu, Jilin, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanxi, and to Korea.It is a medium-sized deciduous tree growing to 15 metres (49 ft) tall with a broad, rounded crown. The bark is smooth on young trees, becoming shallowly ridged with age. The leaves are opposite, palmately lobed with five lobes, 5 centimetres (2.0 in) to 12 centimetres (4.7 in) long and 7 centimetres (2.8 in) to 11 millimetres (0.43 in) broad, with a 3 centimetres (1.2 in) to 10 millimetres (0.39 in) petiole; the lobes are usually entire, but occasionally with a pair of teeth on the largest central lobe, and the margin is often wavy. The petiole bleeds a milky latex when broken. The flowers are in corymbs, yellow-green with five petals 5 millimetres (0.20 in) to 7 millimetres (0.28 in) long; flowering occurs in early spring. The fruit is a double samara with two winged seeds, the seeds are disc-shaped, slightly flattened, 13 millimetres (0.51 in) to 18 millimetres (0.71 in) across. The wings are 2 centimetres (0.79 in) long, widely spread, approaching a 180° angle. The bark is greenish-grey, smooth in young trees, becoming shallowly grooved in mature.It is closely related to, and often difficult to distinguish from, Acer amplum, Acer cappadocicum, and Acer pictum subsp. mono, which replace it further south and west in China, and in Japan. From Acer cappadocicum it is best distinguished by the shoots which turn brown by their first winter, not remaining green for several years. From Acer mono (syn. A. pictum auct. non Thunb.) it is best distinguished by the larger, thicker (less flattened) seeds. Acer truncatum is very unusual among maples in showing hypogeal germination.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days

The Shandong maple thrives best in a moist environment, similar to its natural woodland habitat. Once it is well-established, it can tolerate moderate drought, although it prefers to be watered regularly every two weeks. Primarily grown outdoors, the Shandong maple demonstrates resilience during the growing season by efficiently utilizing water to maintain its foliage.

Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
FAQ
How should I water my Shandong maple in the best way?

To promote excellent root development, place a garden hose at the base of the plant. Avoid spraying the leaves directly and note that outdoor plants in direct sunlight may require additional watering for their leaves. You can also use bubblers or soaker hoses to moisten the roots of each plant. When adding or removing plants, utilize soaker hoses that cover the entire garden or bed to encourage deep root growth. After watering, make sure to drain any excess water and wait for the soil to dry before watering again. Water at ground level to prevent diseases. On a sunny day, consider spraying the entire bush with water. Whether potted or in-ground, keep in mind that the Shandong maple prefers deep watering rather than light sprinkling.

If I give the Shandong maple tree too much or too little water, what should I do?

An overwatered Shandong maple can show signs of yellowing, wilting, and dropping leaves. The plant may also appear dull and unhealthy, with mushy stems. It is important to adjust your watering schedule when these signs start to appear. Wilting can also indicate under watering, which is characterized by crispy and dry leaves. In such cases, check the soil for dryness and if watering alone is not sufficient, give the plant a thorough watering. Although sufficient water will help the Shandong maple recover, it may still exhibit dryness and yellowing leaves for a few days due to the damaged root system. Once it returns to normal, the yellowing of the leaves will cease. When keeping the Shandong maple indoors, always check the moisture levels in the pot and avoid overwatering. Look out for signs of black spots, and if present, allow the soil to dry out by refraining from watering for a few days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so if you observe discolored and slimy roots, consider transferring the plant to a different pot. Always prevent root rot by avoiding excessively soggy soil. When planting the Shandong maple outdoors, ensure that the soil is adequately moist. If the soil feels too dry when checking with your fingers, it may indicate under watering. Proper watering is essential to help the plant recover.

How often do I need to water my Shandong maple tree?

The Shandong maple prefers to be watered deeply and less often. If planted in pots, it's important to soak them in a gallon of water each time to account for their limited water storage. In cold regions, watering should be done every 3 to 5 days, preferably in the morning when the soil is dry. Check the soil regularly to determine if watering is needed - if the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry, give the plant a full watering. In hot weather, check the moisture daily as the soil in the pot can dry out quickly. For garden irrigation, a weekly watering may be sufficient in hot climates, but be sure to only water when the soil is about 2-3 inches dry. Take rainfall into consideration and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Shandong maple trees generally grow during spring and fall, so adding a layer of mulch 3 to 4 inches deep when they are outdoors will help retain moisture. Sandy soil requires more frequent watering due to its fast drainage, while clay soil requires less frequent watering to avoid root rot. Mark the date on your calendar when watering to keep track, and be aware that drooping leaves may indicate a slight delay in watering.

How much water should I give my Shandong maple tree?

To properly water a Shandong maple tree, it typically needs about a gallon of water on a regular schedule. For potted plants, it's important to water them deeply until you see water dripping out of the pot's bottom. Then, allow the soil to dry out before watering again. To determine the amount of water you've given your plant in a week, you can use a water calculator or a moisture meter. During the flowering period, it's crucial to provide ample water, but make sure the moisture evaporates afterward to avoid root rot. If you have planted a Shandong maple tree outdoors and there is sufficient rainfall, it might not require additional watering. However, when the maple tree is young or newly planted, ensure it receives 1-2 inches of rain per week. As the tree grows, it can rely solely on rainfall. Only during extremely hot weather or if there has been no rainfall for 2-3 weeks should you consider a thorough watering during the cooler parts of the day to prevent heat damage. Extra watering may be needed during prolonged dry periods.

Should I change how often I water my Shandong maple based on the time of year or the weather?

To ensure the health of your Shandong maple, it is important to provide the right amount of water and maintain proper drainage. During the spring and fall, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Alternating between dry and moist soil conditions will promote healthy growth. In the summer, hot weather causes water to evaporate quickly, so you may need to water more frequently to keep the soil moist. However, during winter when the tree is dormant and loses its leaves, you can use a well-draining soil mixture to help water evaporate faster. During the dormant period, your Shandong maple can rely on rainfall for water. In the spring, as the temperature warms up, you can encourage growth and blooming by providing adequate watering. It is important to ensure good drainage throughout the year, especially during winter. If the Shandong maple is in a pot, it has limited root growth and should be well-watered, particularly in the summer. Avoid shallow sprinkles that only reach the leaves, as they can encourage fungal growth and do not benefit the roots. In the fall and winter, even during dormancy, do not let the tree dry out completely. Avoid overwatering, as the roots do not like sitting in water for too long, which can lead to their death. Applying mulch can help reduce stress, conserve water, and promote healthy blooms.

☀️ Light Full sun

Shandong maple grows best with plenty of sunlight, though it can adjust to lower light conditions. Its native habitat is rich in sun, which promotes its healthy development. However, care is necessary because excessive exposure can be harmful, while insufficient light may lead to stunted growth.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
How many hours of sunlight does Shandong maple need each day to grow well?

To ensure healthy growth, it is important to provide at least 3-6 hours of sunlight per day for the Shandong maple. This is the minimum requirement, as most plants that can tolerate partial sunlight can also thrive in full sunlight. However, since they require less light for photosynthesis, they are more adaptable than plants that need either full sunlight or partial shade.

What kind of sunlight does the Shandong maple tree require?

Shandong maple thrives with full or partial sun exposure. It prefers direct morning light, but requires protection from intense afternoon sun during the summer. Excessive hot afternoon sun in temperate environments can lead to leaf burns, which can harm the plant's appearance and overall health.

Can the sun harm Shandong maple trees? How can I keep Shandong maple trees safe from the sun and heat?

Shandong maple plants, when moved outdoors, can get easily damaged by direct sunlight. To prevent sunburns from overexposure, the best approach is to gradually move pots from a shaded area to a brighter spot. However, plants acclimated to the summer sun can still be harmed by extreme heat. During a heatwave, it is crucial to ensure that the soil remains consistently moist, allowing plants to handle excessive heat levels. To safeguard sensitive Shandong maple during extreme weather events, consider relocating potted plants to shaded areas in the afternoon or using a shade cloth.

Should I keep Shandong maple away from the sun?

Shandong maple benefits from bright morning sun and some full sun exposure. However, it cannot tolerate the harsh, hot midday sun of summer. If this plant is in the ground, it can gradually adapt to the increasing intensity of the summer sun. But if it is in a pot and has been indoors or in a protected area, sudden exposure to direct summer sun during the hottest part of the day can cause injury. To protect it from the afternoon sun, it is best to plant or place it in a shaded area at midday, such as under taller trees, plants, a building, or a landscape feature.

What will happen if the Shandong maple doesn't get enough sunlight?

Shandong maple may show signs of distress when it lacks sunlight, such as pale green color or drooping, yellow leaves. It is normal for some leaves to drop, but if no new ones take their place, that means there is an issue. In cases where Shandong maple manages to grow in low light, the new growth is often weak, pale, and easily attacked by insects. By paying attention to these indicators and adjusting the lighting conditions, significant improvements can be made.

🌡️ Temperature 0–32.2°C

Shandong maple is native to a climate with temperatures ranging from 32 to 90 °F (0 to 32 ℃). As a versatile plant, it copes well with varying temperatures through the seasons, but may need extra care in extreme conditions.

Ideal temperature: 0–32.2°C
FAQ
What is the best temperature for Shandong maple to grow?

Shandong maple thrives best in temperatures between 65~80℉(18~27℃). During the primary growing phase, it can tolerate temperatures as high as 95℉(35℃) and as low as 15℉(-10℃). This species is able to survive freezing winters and is tolerant of low temperatures. The ideal temperature range is 65~80℉(18~27℃), with the highest tolerable range being 85~95℉(30~35℃), and the lowest range being -5~15℉(-20~-10℃) or below.

Do I need to change the temperature for Shandong maple at different stages of growth?

Research has shown that Shandong maple experiences stunted growth when exposed to prolonged periods of high temperatures, particularly during the development of axillary buds and the growth of main shoots. To ensure healthy growth after germination or transplanting, it is recommended to maintain consistent and cooler temperatures, around 65℉ (18℃).

How can I make sure that the Shandong maple stays warm during cold seasons?

If you plan to plant Shandong maple in the ground, it can handle freezing temperatures as long as they don't drop below 15℉(-10℃) during winter. However, if you want to plant it in pots or containers, make sure to protect the roots from the cold. You can do this by wrapping the container in a blanket or bringing it indoors to fully shield it from the winter weather.

What will happen to Shandong maple if the temperature is too high or too low?

Shandong maple is more likely to be harmed if the temperature is consistently too high rather than too low. When it becomes too hot, the plant's ability to germinate seeds and efficiently carry out photosynthesis is reduced due to the hormones triggered by heat stress. This is evident through symptoms like wilting, leaf browning, and potentially even death. On the other hand, if the temperature becomes too cold, the plant's essential functions like nutrient uptake and photosynthesis will stop, and the plant could die as a result. Additionally, a single freezing event during the growing season could cause a critical change in the plant's membrane, leading to a halt in its functions and eventual death.

What should I remember about temperature for Shandong maple?

To maintain the health of Shandong maple, it is crucial to ensure a consistent soil temperature. This can be achieved by following a few key strategies: regular watering, applying mulch to any bare soil, and planting in shaded areas. By implementing these practices, you can promote successful budding, flowering, and new growth.

💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Timing matters when fertilizing a Shandong maple. Apply fertilizer in early spring and repeat monthly up to early summer. The fertilizer encourages attractive blooms and supplies energy both during dormancy and in periods of active growth.

FAQ
Why is it necessary to put fertilizer on my Shandong maple tree?

Regular fertilization is important for the overall health of your Shandong maple, regardless of its type. Providing the right nutrients will promote vigorous growth, making your tree more resilient to tough conditions and better able to fight off diseases and pests. Since the foliage of your Shandong maple is its most attractive feature, it's crucial to maintain it. This involves following a regular fertilization schedule tailored to your specific tree. By doing so, you can expect richly colored leaves and a lush appearance.

When should I fertilize my Shandong maple tree?

To ensure healthy growth, fertilize your Shandong maple for the first time in late winter or early spring. This will provide the necessary nutrients when the weather starts to warm up. Additionally, if you live in a warm climate region, it is beneficial to provide another round of fertilizer in early fall. This will not only give your Shandong maple the nutrients it needs for the next growing season, but it will also help it better withstand the cold winter without any damage to its foliage. Fertilizing earlier in the fall ensures that new branches have enough time to grow and become more resistant to the winter cold.

When is it best to not fertilize my Shandong maple?

There are a few times during the year when you should not fertilize your Shandong maple. The first time is in early and mid-winter when the tree is dormant and doesn't need feeding. It's also not a good idea to fertilize it in late spring and summer when the weather is hotter and drier. Fertilizing during these times can have a negative impact on the tree. To avoid problems, stick to a fertilization schedule of feeding in early spring and early fall.

What kind of fertilizer does my Shandong maple tree need?

A Shandong maple primarily requires nitrogen for optimal growth, but phosphorus and potassium are also important, albeit to a lesser extent. To provide the necessary nutrients in the right proportion, a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 is effective. However, a more refined ratio of nutrients, with slightly higher nitrogen content, such as 10-6-4, tends to yield better results. When it comes to fertilizing, both granular and liquid-based fertilizers can be used.

What is the best way to give my Shandong maple plant the nutrients it needs?

To fertilize your Shandong maple, you can choose between using granular or liquid fertilizer. If you opt for granular fertilizer, simply sprinkle it on the soil at the right time. The nutrients will be released gradually over time. It's a good idea to lightly water your maple beforehand. Using liquid fertilizer is less common but still an option. Mix the fertilizer with water and pour it around the base of the tree. Occasionally, conducting a soil test before fertilizing can help determine if any pH adjustments are needed.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

Pruning Shandong maple trees in early spring offers several benefits. By removing dead or diseased branches and thinning out crowded areas, you enhance air circulation and light penetration. This process encourages vigorous growth, helps the tree maintain its natural shape, and supports healthier development, resulting in more vibrant foliage.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Humans and other animals are not poisoned by the Shantung maple. However, if consumed in high quantities, it may cause stomach discomfort. Furthermore, maples are often recognized as very harmful to horses. Trees should never be planted by homeowners who have any of these animals. They are much too hazardous in the presence of the impoverished cattle.

Characteristics

Plant Type
Tree
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Acer
Family
Sapindaceae
Hardiness Zone
3-8
Mature Height
7.92 m to 10.06 m
Mature Spread
4.57 m to 6.1 m
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Size
7.62 cm
Bloom Time
Early spring, Mid spring
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Native Area
China

Tags (12)

Common Names (4)

en Shantung maple
en Purple-blow maple
en Shandong Maple
en Manchurian paint maple