Acer capillipes

Acer capillipes is a deciduous tree species from the family of Sapindaceae. This species originally comes from Japan and is often cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its decorative bark and attractive autumn leaves. Acer capillipes belongs to the group of so-called snake skin, which stand out due to their characteristic striped bark.

Morphology

Acer capillipes is a medium -sized deciduous tree that can reach a height of about 10 to 15 meters and a width of 6 to 8 meters. In its natural environment, however, the tree can take even larger dimensions. The tree has an expansive, often multi -stamped growth shape with a rounded to oval crown. Characteristic of Acer capillipes is the green bark, which is crossed by white or light gray stripes and is reminiscent of snake skin. This striking bark is clearly visible in younger trees and gives the plant its name.

The leaves are arranged in an opposite and hand -shaped, as is typical for the genus Acer. They are about 8 to 15 cm long and just as wide, with three to five low -cut rags. The top of the leaf is dark green, while the underside is brighter and finely hairy. In autumn, the leaves turn in bright colors, which range from yellow to orange to intense red tones. This autumn foliage color makes Acer capillipes a popular decorative tree in parks and gardens.

The flowers of Acer capillipes appear in late spring, mostly in May or June, and are relatively inconspicuous. These are small, greenish yellow flowers that are arranged in hanging grapes. They are hermaphrodite or separate sex and are pollinated by insects. After flowering, the typical winged nut fruits (Samaras) develop, which are about 2 to 3 cm long. These fruits ripen in late summer and are spread through the wind.

Distribution and habitat

Acer capillipes is located in the mountain regions of Japan, where it grows in mixed forests on damp, well -permeable soils. The tree prefers cool, moderate climates and thrives particularly well in regions with high rainfall. In its natural environment, it often grows along river banks or in damp valleys, where it finds enough water and protection against extreme weather conditions.

In Europe and North America, Acer capillipes has been introduced and cultivated as an ornamental plant since the 19th century. In these regions, the tree prefers sunny to partially shaded locations with fertile, slightly acidic to neutral soils. The tree is relatively frost -hard, but can be damaged in extremely cold climate zones.

Ecological meaning

In its natural environment, Acer capillipes contributes to the biodiversity of the forests and offers a habitat for different animal species. The flowers of the tree offer nectar for insects, while the winged fruits represent a source of food for birds and small mammals. In addition, the dense, branched branches of the tree contribute to the stabilization of bank floors and help prevent erosion.

In cultivated environments, especially in gardens and parks, Acer capillipes mainly has an aesthetic function. Its attractive bark and the bright autumn leaves make it a valuable ornamental tree that is used individually and in group plantings. Due to its relatively compact size, it is also suitable for smaller gardens.

Use in garden culture

Due to its decorative bark and the striking autumn color, Acer capillipes is a very valued ornamental tree in garden and landscape design. It is often planted in Japanese gardens because of its elegant growth shape and the beautiful autumn colors. The tree is easy to care for and relatively undemanding as long as it is planted in well -permeable, damp soils. It tolerates full sun and partial shade, with the autumn color in sunny layers more intense.

Regular cut is not necessary for Acer capillipes because the tree naturally has an attractive growth shape. Only dead or damaged branches should be removed to get the health of the tree.

Potential threats

Despite its resilience, Acer capillipes can be weakened by pests such as the maple bark beetle or diseases such as mildew and verticillium welke. Especially in regions with dry summers, care should be taken to ensure that the tree receives enough water to minimize stress and susceptibility to diseases.