Acer sterculiaceum (Franchet’s maple, Himalayan maple, 苹婆枫) is a species of maple tree in the soapberry family. It is indigenous to Bhutan, northern India, and southwestern and central China (Guizhou, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Tibet, Yunnan).Acer sterculiaceum grows at altitudes of 1,800–3,100 metres (5,900–10,200 ft). It is a tree up to 20 meters tall with dark gray or grayish-brown bark. Leaves are palmately lobed, usually with 3 or 5 lobes but occasionally 7. Leaves are up to 20 cm long, thick and a bit leathery, dark green and hairless on the top, lighter green and woolly on the underside. SubspeciesAcer sterculiaceum subsp. franchetii (Pax) A.E.Murray - central and southwestern China Acer sterculiaceum subsp. sterculiaceum - Yunnan, Tibet, Bhutan, India Acer sterculiaceum subsp. thomsonii (Miq.) A.E.Murray - northern India
Painted maple is resistant to disease and is usually not susceptible to illnesses. Regarding care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. Painted maplet is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or a deck, and does not require extensive care experience.
How to keep Acer Sterculiaceum.
Light
The painted maple needs a balanced amount of sun exposure for the best growth, although it can also survive in places with moderate sunlight. Too much exposure can impede its growth, while insufficient sun may contribute to a decline in its health. Having originated from sun-drenched habitats, the plant adjusts to different levels of sunlight throughout its various growth stages.
Water
The Acer sterculiaceum thrives in moist soil, especially during the summer, although its leaves are prone to scorching if conditions become too dry. For seedlings in pots, water them twice daily during the summer. As temperatures decrease in the spring and fall, adjust the watering frequency accordingly. During winter, ensure that the soil remains moist. For garden seedlings, it's important to water them carefully during their early stages of growth and adjust the watering based on the weather as they mature.
Temperature
The painted maple is native to climates where the temperatures typically stay between 41 and 89.6 °F (5 to 32 °C). This vegetation flourishes within these temperate conditions, hence those growing it for optimal development should adjust the surroundings as needed to accommodate with changes in season.
Fertilizer
For the healthy development of your Painted maple, apply fertilizer in early spring. Consistent fertilization helps improve its overall health, leading to robust growth, the ability to withstand harsh circumstances, and increased resistance to diseases and pests. Adhere to a particular fertilization timetable for your Painted maple, to promise brightly colored, lush leaves.
Pruning
Acer sterculiaceum is known for its distinctive foliage and vigorous growth. To maintain its health and shape, prune the plant in early spring. This will help remove any dead or diseased branches, enhancing air circulation and allowing sunlight to penetrate more effectively. Be sure to use clean, sharp tools for pruning. Concentrate on thinning the foliage and managing crossing branches to prevent potential damage.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Acer
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 5-8
- Mature Height
- 9.14 m to 12.19 m
- Mature Spread
- 9.14 m to 11.89 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Blue, Yellow, Gold, Orange
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- White, Yellow, Green, Gold
- Flower Size
- 6.35 cm to 8.89 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early spring, Mid spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Autumn, Winter
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Russia, Japan, Koppen, South Korea, China
