Field Maple Tree

Acer campestre ‘Elsrijk’ – Field Maple Tree ‘Elsrijk’

Acer campestre ‘Elsrijk’ is a compact, dense-growing cultivar of the Field Maple (Acer campestre). It is known for its upright, uniform shape, resistance to disease, and beautiful autumn foliage, making it an excellent choice for urban planting, street trees, and small gardens.

Key Features of Field Maple Tree ‘Elsrijk’

1. Foliage:

   • Small, lobed leaves with a deep green color in spring and summer.
   • Turns a golden yellow in autumn, providing seasonal interest.
   • Dense canopy with good wind resistance.

2. Growth Habit:

   • A compact, slow-growing tree, reaching about 7-9 meters (23-30 feet) in height and 4-6 meters (13-20 feet) in width.
   • Naturally develops a rounded, uniform shape, requiring little pruning.

3. Bark:

   • Smooth and grayish when young, becoming corky and textured with age.

4. Flowers & Fruits:

   • Small, yellow-green flowers appear in spring (April-May), attracting pollinators.
   • Produces winged seeds (samaras) in late summer.

5. Soil & Conditions:

   • Adapts to a wide range of soils, including clay, loam, sand, and chalky soils.
   • Prefers well-drained soil but tolerates temporary waterlogging.

6. Sunlight Requirements:

   • Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
   • More vibrant autumn colors in full sun.

7. Hardiness & Climate Tolerance:

   • Hardy in USDA zones 5-8 and suitable for temperate and cooler climates.
   • Highly resistant to urban pollution, making it ideal for city environments.
   • Tolerant of wind, drought, and compacted soil once established.

Uses & Benefits

✅ Urban & Street Tree: Compact size and tolerance to pollution and poor soil make it ideal for city planting.
✅ Garden Tree: A great small to medium-sized tree for residential gardens and landscapes.
✅ Autumn Interest: Beautiful yellow fall color makes it a standout in seasonal gardens.
✅ Low Maintenance: Naturally forms a uniform shape, requiring minimal pruning.
✅ Wildlife Friendly: Attracts birds, bees, and pollinators with its flowers and seeds.

Care Tips

• Watering: Regular watering when young; drought-tolerant once established.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning required; if needed, prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
• Fertilizing: A balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring can encourage healthy growth.
• Mulching: Applying mulch around the base helps retain moisture and protect roots.

Field Maple Tree, Acer campestre ‘Elsrijk’ is a fantastic low-maintenance tree that thrives in urban conditions, offering seasonal beauty, compact size, and resilience. Whether for streets, parks, or home gardens, it’s a great choice for adding year-round interest and structure. 🌳🍂