tree

State Street Miyabe Maple

Acer miyabei 'Morton'

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

540 inches

Width

396 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Low to Medium

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived tree

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer miyabei is a medium-sized deciduous tree from Japan, known for its toughness, adaptability to urban conditions, and attractive corky bark. 'Morton', sold as State Street, is a selection from the Morton Arboretum chosen for its excellent uniform, upright-oval shape, faster growth rate, and greater heat and drought tolerance than the species. Its dark green, tatter-resistant leaves turn a clear yellow in fall.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

A handsome, well-shaped shade tree with attractive, dark green foliage, clear yellow fall color, and interesting corky bark that adds winter texture.

Its extreme toughness, including tolerance of drought, heat, alkaline soils, and urban pollution, make it an outstanding performer in challenging environments where other trees fail.

The early spring flowers, though not showy, provide a nectar and pollen source for bees and other early-emerging pollinators.

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location in full sun.
This tree is highly adaptable to various soil types.
Dig a planting hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
Set the tree so the root flare is at or just above the soil line.
Backfill with the excavated soil and water thoroughly.
Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

This maple is highly tolerant of urban pollution and compacted soils, making it a superior choice for street-side planting.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide supplemental water during the first few years of establishment.
Prune for good structure when the tree is young.
Appreciate its tolerance of tough conditions like drought and alkaline soils.
Give it ample space to grow to its mature size.

Don't

Don't plant too deep; ensure the root flare is visible.
Don't over-fertilize; it's not a heavy feeder.
Don't plant where its mature size will conflict with structures or wires.
Don't worry about common maple diseases; it's very resistant.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tough and reliable street treeUniform shade tree for residential lawnsAdaptable tree for difficult urban sites

Companion Plants

Hosta Heuchera Vinca minor Carex

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

State Street Miyabe Maple questions

What zones can State Street Miyabe Maple grow in?

State Street Miyabe Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is State Street Miyabe Maple deer resistant?

Yes — State Street Miyabe Maple is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does State Street Miyabe Maple bloom?

State Street Miyabe Maple typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does State Street Miyabe Maple need full sun?

State Street Miyabe Maple does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is State Street Miyabe Maple drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), State Street Miyabe Maple handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.