Species

Acer buergerianumTrident Maple

2 other cultivars

tree

Trident Maple

Acer buergerianum 'Valynor'

The Story

Plant Bio

Acer buergerianum, commonly known as trident maple, is a small to medium deciduous tree native to East Asia, developing exfoliating bark in shades of gray, brown, and orange-brown on mature trunks. Its glossy dark green leaves feature three forward-pointing lobes that transform into bright shades of yellow, orange, and red before dropping in fall.

'Valynor' is distinguished by its tight, upright-oval to rounded habit and narrow branching structure, reaching 30 to 40 feet tall with a compact spread. It produces light green spring foliage that matures into dark green, offering uniform fall color and consistent structural performance ideal for tight urban plantings.

Uses & Benefits:

Offers symmetrical upright structure, glossy summer foliage, brilliant fall color, and attractive peeling winter bark.

Tolerates compacted soil, moderate air pollution, and paved root restriction, making it ideal for urban streetscapes.

Provides nesting cover and structural shelter for songbirds and generalist insects in developed urban areas.

SpeciesAcer buergerianumTrident Maple

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

480"

Width

216"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring – Late spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting location in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and equal to its depth, ensuring the root flare rests level with the surrounding grade.
Backfill with native soil, firm gently to eliminate air pockets, and water deeply.
Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch over the root zone, keeping it 3 inches away from the trunk bark.
Water weekly during the first two growing seasons until the root system is established.

Pro Tip

Prune strictly in mid-to-late summer after leaves have fully hardened; pruning in late winter or early spring triggers heavy sap flow that stresses the tree.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during extended summer heat spells until the tree establishes.
Prune exclusively in mid-to-late summer to shape the canopy and remove dead wood.
Maintain a layer of organic mulch around the root zone to conserve soil moisture.

Don't

Do not prune in late winter or early spring when high sap pressure causes heavy bleeding.
Do not over-fertilize, as high nitrogen promotes weak, excessive growth susceptible to damage.
Do not plant in permanently waterlogged or poorly drained soils.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Street tree for urban stripsSpecimen tree for small residential lawnsShade tree for courtyards and patiosBuffer planting along paved areas

Companion Plants

Heuchera Hosta Carex Hydrangea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Trident Maple questions

What zones can Trident Maple grow in?

Trident Maple is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Trident Maple deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Trident Maple, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Trident Maple bloom?

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

Does Trident Maple need full sun?

Trident Maple does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Trident Maple drought tolerant?

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