David's Maple, or Acer davidii, is a deciduous tree native to central and southern China, known for its striking snake-like bark with vertical white stripes on a green background. This tree can reach heights of 10-15 meters and is valued in ornamental landscaping for its vibrant autumn foliage, which turns shades of red and orange. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, David's Maple serves as a canopy species in food forests, providing shade and habitat for wildlife. It supports ecosystem stability by enhancing biodiversity and can thrive in a variety of soil types. Historically, it has been used for its ornamental value and occasionally for small woodworking projects. In a guild, it pairs well with understory plants like ferns and shade-tolerant herbs, contributing to a diverse and resilient ecosystem.
Growing Details
David's Maple thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with a preference for slightly acidic to neutral pH levels. Mulching with organic matter such as leaf litter or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like ferns and shade-tolerant herbs can benefit from the dappled shade provided by the maple. Avoid planting in areas with poor drainage to prevent root rot. The tree should be protected from strong winds, especially when young. Harvest sap in early spring for the
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Acer davidii</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: Native to central and southern China
applicable geo region: East Asia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of September for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The sap of David's Maple can be tapped and used as a sweetener, although it is less common than other maple species. It is typically harvested in early spring when the sap flow is strongest.
Medicinal Rating:
(0/5)
medicinal uses:
health concerns:
other uses: The wood is sometimes used for small woodworking projects, and the tree is highly valued for its ornamental bark.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Acer davidii</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Acer davidii
common names: David's Maple; Pรจre David's Maple; Snakebark
family: Sapindaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Acer
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / -20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(5/10)
first harvest: 0 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:
Monoecious
growth details: David's Maple thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with a preference for slightly acidic to neutral pH levels. Mulching with organic matter such as leaf litter or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like ferns and shade-tolerant herbs can benefit from the dappled shade provided by the maple. Avoid planting in areas with poor drainage to prevent root rot. The tree should be protected from strong winds, especially when young. Harvest sap in early spring for the
Potential Disturbances: David's Maple can be affected by aphids and scale insects. Natural pest management includes introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Companion planting with garlic or chives can help repel pests. For fungal diseases such as verticillium wilt, ensure proper air circulation and avoid overwatering.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
Animals Interacting With This Plant
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