Striped Maple Acer pensylvanicum
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the Striped Maple is a visually fascinating species characterized by its unique bark and foliage. The bark of this plant stands out with its distinctive green and white stripes, which can be especially noticeable in young specimens. As the plant matures, the bark darkens, developing a more reddish-brown hue with less pronounced striping. The leaves of the Striped Maple are large and almost hand-like, with three distinct lobes that give them a slightly triangular shape. They are broad and have a smooth texture, with edges that are finely toothed. During the spring and summer, the leaves exhibit a bright green color, which transforms into an array of brilliant yellows during the autumn, adding a touch of vibrant seasonal color to the natural landscape. Small, bell-shaped flowers dangle from the branches in the late spring, usually appearing in clusters. These flowers are quite modest and may range in color from yellowish-green to red. Following the flowering period, the Striped Maple produces winged seeds that hang in pairs and can be seen twirling to the ground when they detach in the fall. Overall, the Striped Maple's striking bark and attractive foliage, along with its delicate flowers and unique seeds, contribute to its ornamental appeal, making it a visually pleasing addition to woodland gardens and naturalized areas.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Sapindaceae.
Synonyms
Striped Maple, Moosewood, Moose Maple, Goosefoot Maple, Whistlewood, Snakebark Maple.
Common names
Acer striatum, Acer pensylvanicum var. pensylvanicum, Acer pensylvanicum f. pensylvanicum.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Striped Maple (Acer pensylvanicum) is not widely regarded as toxic to humans. There is little information available to suggest that the ingestion of its parts typically causes adverse effects. However, as with any plant material, individual sensitivities vary, and the consumption of non-food plants is generally discouraged. If someone does ingest part of a Striped Maple and experiences unusual symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
To pets
Striped Maple (Acer pensylvanicum) is not commonly associated with toxicity to pets. This species of maple does not typically contain the toxins found in certain other maples that are harmful to animals, such as horses. However, ingestion of any plant material can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets, including vomiting or diarrhea, due to the animal's digestive system not being adapted to process plant materials. If your pet consumes Striped Maple and exhibits adverse symptoms, contact your veterinarian for advice.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow-green
Height
20-30 feet (6-9 meters)
Spread
10-20 feet (3-6 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
3-7
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Wildlife Habitat: Acer pensylvanicum, also known as striped maple, offers habitat and food for various wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
- Landscape Aesthetics: With its unique white-striped bark and broad leaves, the striped maple adds visual interest and beauty to natural landscapes.
- Erosion Control: The root system of striped maples can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Shade Provider: Large leaves of the striped maple create dappled shade, which can cool the environment and provide protection for shade-loving plants.
- Seasonal Variation: The plant exhibits delightful seasonal changes, offering green foliage in spring and summer, and vibrant yellow hues in the fall.
- Habitat Diversity: By including native plants like striped maple, gardeners and landscapers can increase biodiversity in their local ecosystem.
- Pollinator Support: Though inconspicuous, the flowers of the striped maple provide food for native pollinators in the springtime.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The bark of the Striped Maple can be used as a natural camouflage material in crafting due to its distinct pattern, which blends well with forest surroundings.
- Wood from Striped Maple is sometimes employed in the making of specialty wood products, such as musical instruments, due to its workability and aesthetic grain.
- The tree is occasionally used in ornamental landscaping for its unique striped bark and attractive autumn foliage.
- Striped Maple can be used in education for studying natural patterns and plant identification, particularly its characteristic vertical white stripes.
- Sap from the Striped Maple, though not as abundant as from other maples, can be collected and processed into syrup.
- In the past, the wood of Striped Maple has been used for making plates and dishes due to its light-weight property.
- Young Striped Maple shoots can be harvested and utilized in basket weaving and other traditional crafts.
- The leaves of the Striped Maple can serve as a natural dyeing agent, providing shades of green and yellow depending on the mordant used.
- Striped Maple wood may be used in the creation of small wooden toys or novelty items because of its fine grain and ease of carving.
- The tree has been used in smaller-scale reforestation or woodland restoration projects due to its adaptability and moderate growth rate.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Striped Maple is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Striped Maple is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Acer pensylvanicum, commonly known as the Striped Maple or Moosewood, can thrive in a variety of soil types and is known to recover well from damage, symbolizing the ability to adapt and endure hardships.
- Growth: As a maple species, the Striped Maple represents continual growth and expansion, reflecting personal development and the pursuit of one's goals.
- Protection: The Striped Maple has bark that is thought to resemble the protective skin of a snake, which in some cultures symbolizes protection from harm.
- Beauty: With its unique striped bark and changing leaves, the Striped Maple is often associated with beauty and the aesthetic pleasures in life.
- Balance: Maples are often found in diverse forests, holding a balance within the ecosystem, hence symbolizing ecological balance and harmony with nature.
WaterStripe Maple requires regular watering to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during hot and dry periods. During the growing season, water the tree once or twice a week with approximately 5 gallons of water each time, depending on the size of the tree and the weather conditions. In winter, reduce watering but do not allow the soil to become completely dry. It is best to water the Stripe Maple deeply to encourage root growth, by letting water soak slowly into the soil around the tree's base, rather than frequent shallow watering.
LightStripe Maple thrives best in partial shade to full shade conditions. It should be planted in a location where it can be shielded from the harsh afternoon sun, as this can cause leaf scorch. The ideal spot is under the canopy of larger trees where it can receive dappled sunlight throughout the day, providing the natural woodland lighting conditions it prefers.
TemperatureStripe Maple is suited to a wide range of temperatures, typically thriving in USDA zones 3 to 8. It can tolerate minimum winter temperatures down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit and summer temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for promoting healthy growth in a Stripe Maple is between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning Stripe Maple is primarily aimed at maintaining its shape and removing any dead or damaged branches. It's best to prune during late winter to early spring when the tree is still dormant and before the sap starts flowing. This timing helps prevent excessive bleeding. Pruning should be done sparingly, as the tree does not respond well to heavy cutting back; usually, only light shaping and thinning are necessary.
CleaningAs needed
SoilStriped Maple prefers well-drained, moist soil with a good amount of organic matter. A mix of two parts loam, one part peat or leaf mold, and one part sharp sand or perlite would be ideal. The best soil pH for Striped Maple is slightly acidic to neutral, around 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingStriped Maple, or Moosewood, being a larger tree, is not typically repotted often. Young trees may be repotted every 2 to 3 years, but as they mature, repotting should be done only when necessary, which could extend to 5 years or more depending on the growth rate and container size.
Humidity & MistingStriped Maple generally prefers moderate to high humidity levels. While specific humidity percentages are not crucial, maintaining a relatively high humidity, similar to its natural woodland habitat, would benefit the tree, especially if grown indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, ensure soil is well-draining.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Acer pensylvanicum, commonly known as the striped maple, begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in spring after dispersal and winter stratification. The seedling emerges and establishes itself, quickly developing a root system and the first set of true leaves. After the initial growth, it enters a vegetative state, characterized by rapid stem and leaf development as the plant works towards reaching maturity. Sexual maturity is reached after several years, at which point the striped maple begins its reproductive phase, producing flowers that are pollinated by wind or insects. Following pollination, samaras, or winged fruits, develop and disperse in the wind, propagating the next generation. The tree continues this cycle annually, with mature specimens capable of living and reproducing for decades.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The most popular method of propagation for Acer pensylvanicum, commonly known as the Striped Maple, is through seed. This deciduous tree's seeds typically germinate best when they are sown fresh. Once the winged samaras, which are the seeds of the Striped Maple, mature in the fall, they can be collected and sown immediately in a cold frame or outdoors in a prepared seedbed. The seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy; this can be naturally achieved through the winter. When temperatures warm in the spring, the seeds will germinate. Care should be taken to keep the soil moist but not soggy to prevent the seeds from rotting. Seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots when large enough and eventually outplanted to their permanent positions when they have established a robust root system.
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