Acer campestre
Acer campestre
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Description
Acer campestre, commonly known as the Field Maple, is a deciduous tree native to much of Europe and western Asia. It thrives in a variety of habitats, from woodlands to hedgerows, and is well-suited to temperate climates. The tree is characterized by its small, five-lobed leaves that turn a striking yellow in the autumn, creating a vibrant display. Historically, it has been used in traditional hedgerow management, providing shelter and food for a wide range of wildlife, including birds and insects. Its dense foliage offers excellent cover, while its flowers provide nectar for pollinators. In regenerative agriculture, Acer campestre plays a crucial role in soil stabilization and carbon sequestration, helping to restore degraded landscapes. Its wood, known for its fine grain, has been used in crafting and tool-making. The tree's adaptability to different soil types and its ability to thrive in both full sun and partial shade make it a valuable component of sustainable farming systems. As we look to the future, the Field Maple's resilience and ecological benefits position it as a key player in efforts to enhance biodiversity and combat climate change.
Growing Details
Acer campestre is relatively easy to grow, preferring well-drained, fertile soils but adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils. It can be propagated from seed, which should be sown in autumn or stratified before spring planting. The tree benefits from regular watering during dry periods, especially when young, but is drought-tolerant once established. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth. It is resistant to many common diseases and can be grown in both full sun and partial shade, making it versatile for different landscape settings.
Edible Parts
Leaves
Fruit
Seed
Sap
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Sweetener
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Acer campestre</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Europe, W. Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: english
Flowering:
middle
of April for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of October for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of October
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: The sap of Acer campestre can be tapped and used as a sweetener, similar to that of the more commonly known sugar maple. While not as sweet, it can be boiled down to produce a syrup. The young leaves and seeds are also edible, though they are not commonly consumed. The seeds, known as samaras, can be roasted and eaten, providing a nutty flavor. In some cultures, the leaves have been used in salads or as a cooked green. The tree's sap is typically harvested in early spring, and the syrup can be used in a variety of culinary applications, from sweetening beverages to glazing meats.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Acer campestre has been used in folk medicine for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. The bark and leaves have been used to prepare teas and poultices for treating skin conditions and minor wounds. The sap, rich in minerals, has been consumed as a tonic to boost overall health. Some studies suggest that the tree's compounds may have antioxidant properties, although more research is needed to fully understand its potential health benefits. In historical contexts, the tree was valued for its ability to support the body's natural healing processes, particularly in rural communities.
health concerns: While Acer campestre is generally considered safe, individuals with allergies to other members of the Sapindaceae family should exercise caution. There are no known toxic compounds in the tree, but as with any wild plant, proper identification is crucial before consumption. Pregnant women and children should consult a healthcare provider before using the tree for medicinal purposes. Overconsumption of the sap may lead to digestive discomfort, and it is advisable to introduce it gradually into the diet.
other uses: Acer campestre is highly valued for its wood, which is dense and fine-grained, making it suitable for carving and turning. It has been traditionally used to make musical instruments, furniture, and small tools. The tree is also an excellent choice for creating natural windbreaks and hedges, providing privacy and shelter for wildlife. Its ability to thrive in a variety of soil conditions makes it a popular choice for erosion control and land reclamation projects. In agroforestry systems, it can be used as a companion plant to enhance biodiversity and improve soil health.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Acer campestre
common names: Klen
family: Sapindaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Acer
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / -15ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity: High
light demands: Medium
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 5 years
life span: 100 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 15.0 m
max width: 10.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Acer campestre is relatively easy to grow, preferring well-drained, fertile soils but adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils. It can be propagated from seed, which should be sown in autumn or stratified before spring planting. The tree benefits from regular watering during dry periods, especially when young, but is drought-tolerant once established. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth. It is resistant to many common diseases and can be grown in both full sun and partial shade, making it versatile for different landscape settings.
Potential Disturbances: Acer campestre is generally resilient but can occasionally face challenges from aphids, which feed on sap and cause leaf curling. Natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can help manage aphid populations. The tree may also experience leaf spot diseases, which can be managed with appropriate care.
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