Tree 21

Acer buergerianum

Acer buergerianum, the Trident maple, is a lovely small tree known for its trident-shaped leaves with three points, like a tulip. A member of Sapindaceae (the soapberry family), it is slow-growing, and in maturity, has an ovular shape.

To prosper, it requires sun and well drained soil. It will tolerate dry, infertile sites, as well as wind, salt, drought, air pollution, and soil compaction. Height may range from 25′ to 35′, and width, 20′ to 30′. The leaf measures 1.5″ to 3.5″. New growth is often bronze to purple, yellow, orange, red in fall, and coloring than most maples. With age, the bark exfoliates revealing gray, orange, and brown color. It does not develop leaf scorch during drought.