Shandong maple (Acer truncatum)
Also known as: Shantung Maple, Purpleblow Maple
The Ginkgo biloba tree, originating from northern China, is a resilient and low-maintenance species. It is well-suited for ornamental planting and thrives as a street or landscape tree. With proper care, this tree can mature quickly and has a lifespan that can exceed 100 years.
In This Article
Attributes of Shandong maple
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Tree
Plant Height
8 m to 10 m
Spread
4.5 m to 6 m
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
8 cm
Flower Color
Yellow Green
Images of Shandong maple
Quickly Identify Shandong maple
1
Distinctive palmate leaves with five lobes and truncated tips.
2
Small greenish-yellow flowers in clusters with 5 petals and lack of scent.
3
Winged double samaras forming a 90-degree angle for seed dispersal.
4
Smooth, reddish-brown stem with glabrous surface and lens-shaped pores.
5
Trunk starts purple, ages to gray-brown with deeply fissured bark.
Scientific Classification of Shandong maple
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Maples, mangos, mahogany, citrus, and allies
Family
Soapberry
Genus
Maples
Species
Shandong maple
Planting and Growing of Shandong maple
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 2 days
Sunlight Requirements
Full sun
Sunshine Duration
4-6 hours
Ideal Temperature
60-75℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water Shandong maple?
When watering Acer truncatum, it's crucial to ensure the soil is thoroughly moist but not waterlogged. This tree requires about 1000 milliliters per session, making sure water penetrates deeply into the soil, allowing the roots to fully absorb the necessary moisture without leaving the soil soggy.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Shandong maple?
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What should I do if my Shandong maple is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Shandong maple?
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How to save an overwatered Shandong maple?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Shandong maple?
Acer truncatum flourishes under a light range that includes full to partial sun. Providing such an environment ensures colorful foliage, stronger growth, and enhanced disease resistance.
What is the best lighting condition for Acer truncatum?
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What adjustments can be made to achieve ideal lighting?
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What benefits does ideal lighting provide to Acer truncatum?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Shandong maple?
The ideal temperature range for growing Acer truncatum is between 60°F and 75°F. This range allows the plant to thrive without experiencing stress from either cold or heat, providing optimal conditions for growth and development.
What Soil is Best for Shandong maple?
Acer truncatum prefers well-draining soil to prevent water stagnation, which could lead to root rot. Ensuring soil drainage helps maintain optimal moisture levels. This tree thrives in nutrient-rich soils, providing it with essential minerals for healthy growth. Amending the soil with organic matter can boost fertility. The soil should retain moisture without becoming waterlogged, as this assists the tree in withstanding periods of drought. Mulching can help in moisture retention.
How to Fertilize Shandong maple?
Acer truncatum benefits from a balanced nutrient supply. For liquid fertilizer, use approximately 1 tablespoon of balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer diluted in a gallon of water. When using slow-release fertilizers, apply around 1 pound per 100 square feet of soil area annually.
How to Prune Shandong maple?
Before starting the pruning, ensure you have all necessary tools such as sharp pruning shears, a small hand saw, and antiseptic wipes. Clean tools reduce the risk of disease transmission. Proper preparation helps the process proceed smoothly and safely. Start by identifying branches that need removal. Look for dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Thinner branches without buds should also be considered for removal to encourage new growth. Identifying the right branches is essential for directing the tree's energy to healthy parts. Use clean cuts and angle them slightly away from the bud, ensuring water does not pool on the cut surfaces. Trim branches back to the main stem or trunk for larger cuts and above a node for smaller branches. Proper technique reduces stress and potential fungal infections.
How to Propagate Shandong maple plant?
1
Begin by soaking Acer truncatum seeds in warm water for 24 hours to help soften the seed coat and enhance germination rates. After soaking, plant them in a well-draining seed-starting mix.
2
Select healthy, semi-hardwood stems from the parent tree for cuttings. Cut 4 to 6 inch long segments using pruning shears, and remove the lower leaves to reduce moisture loss.
3
Choose a robust, compatible rootstock and prepare both scion and rootstock by making matching cuts. Align and secure them together with grafting tape, ensuring good contact for successful fusion.
How to Repot Shandong maple plant?
1
Repot your Acer truncatum when you notice roots emerging from the drainage holes or when growth seems stunted and the soil dries out too quickly. These are sure-sign indicators that your tree needs more space to thrive.
2
Select a pot that's at least 2 inches wider in diameter than the current one with ample drainage holes. This allows for comfortable root expansion and ensures excess water can escape, preventing root rot and promoting healthy growth.
3
Choose a loamy, well-draining potting mix that contains organic matter. This type of soil mix ensures proper aeration and prevents waterlogging, allowing roots to access the air and nutrients they need to flourish.
