Product description
Acer campestre is known for its fabulous autumn display of buttery yellow and red leaves, creating a focal point in a garden that is heading into winter. It is deciduous and offers a show of dark green, rounded five-lobed foliage in spring and summer. The leaves are often tinted purple-red when young before deepening into green. In spring, the tree offers a lovely display of yellow-green upright flowers.
Field Maple trees have a fissured bark with a corky texture adding an additional interesting element. It has winged helicopter-like seeds that children enjoy collecting.
Your Field Maple enjoys fertile, moist and well-drained soil. It is very hardy and can grow in full sun or partial shade. This tree is resilient and will tolerate a range of less than perfect conditions. It has a rounded habit and can reach heights of 9m with a spread of 7m in a 20 year period.
Acer campestre makes a wonderful hedgerow and can be kept compact and in shape by regular pruning. Plant many in a row to block out an unsightly view or obscure a dull boundary wall. It also makes a great specimen tree when planted alone, next to a garden feature, a picnic spot or when surrounded by a a rocky landscape.
Acer campestre holds an RHS Award of Garden merit. Royal followers and avid gardeners will be delighted to know that the large trees lining the red carpet that William and Kate walked along leading to the Alter were a mix of 6 English Field Maples and 2 Hornbeam trees!
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune Acer trees lightly during winter or early spring, removing any dead or damaged branches to maintain their shape. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can spoil their natural form. Protect young trees from harsh winds, which can damage delicate leaves, especially on Japanese varieties. Adding an organic fertiliser in spring will encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
How to Water
Water your Acer deeply after planting and continue to water regularly during its first growing season to establish strong roots. Mature Acer trees prefer consistent moisture but are sensitive to waterlogging. Water during dry spells, especially in summer, ensuring the soil is evenly moist but not soggy. Using rainwater is ideal, as it prevents any buildup of salts that can occur with tap water.
How to Plant
To plant an Acer tree, select a sheltered spot with partial shade and moist, well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the root collar remains level with the surrounding soil. Soak the root ball in water before planting to reduce transplant shock. Backfill the hole with soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly. Apply a mulch layer to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, keeping it clear of the tree trunk.