Rocky Mountain Maple

(Acer glabrum)

Rocky Mountain Maple (Acer glabrum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Acer glabrum, commonly known as Rocky Mountain Maple, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to mountainous regions, including forested areas, stream banks, and moist mountain slopes of the Western and Intermountain regions of the USA as well as Western Canada. It typically grows to a height of 6–9 meters (20–30 feet) with a slender trunk of about 13 centimeters (5 inches) in diameter. The species forms a multi-stemmed clump with a rounded to irregular crown. Its leaves are simple and palmate with three to five lobes, turning a vibrant yellow or red in the fall. The yellowish-green flowers are modest in appearance, blooming in corymbs of five to ten in spring, coinciding with the emergence of new leaves. The fruit is a distinctive samara, or winged seed, which matures in fused pairs at an angle of less than 45°, though some may spread to 90°, aiding in wind dispersal.

Rocky Mountain Maple is valued for its adaptability to various soil conditions and its ability to thrive with minimal water, making it suitable for xeriscaping. It is often used in naturalistic plantings, as a component of wildlife gardens, and for stabilizing slopes. While it prefers full sun to part shade, it is also tolerant of heavier shade, making it versatile for different garden designs. It is important to note that this species can be susceptible to aphids and scale insects. Additionally, it is not typically invasive when grown outside its native range, but gardeners should always monitor local guidelines and recommendations.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 10-30 feet
  • Width: 5-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Mountainous regions, including forested areas, stream banks, and moist mountain slopes

Other Names

Common Names: California Mountain Maple , Douglas’ Maple , New Mexico Maple , Sierra Maple , Dwarf Maple , Mountain Maple , Western Mountain Maple , Érable Nain , Klipplönn

Scientific Names: Acer glabrum , Acer glabrum var. tripartitum , Acer tripartitum , Acer glabrum f. trisectum , Acer subserratum , Acer glabrum f. tripartitum , Acer glabrum subsp. typicum , Acer glabrum var. typicum

GBIF Accepted Name: Acer glabrum Torr.