Acer stachyophyllum

Acer stachyophyllum belongs to the family of Sapindaceae. This species is native to the mountain regions of the Himalayas as well as in parts of China and India and is characterized by its graceful leaves and striking inflorescences. The tree is increasingly used in garden culture, especially because of its attractive autumn color and its adaptability to different environmental conditions.

Morphology

Acer stachyophyllum is a medium -sized, deciduous tree, which usually reaches a height of 10 to 20 meters. The tree has a slim growth shape and a rounded to oval crown, which is shaped by its wide -out branches. The bark of young specimens is smooth and greenish-brown, while it develops a gray-brown and slightly cracked texture in older trees. A special property of Acer stachyophyllum are the characteristic, elongated inflorescences that have gave the tree its scientific name "stachyophyllum", which means "ear leaves".

The leaves are arranged, hand -shaped and have three to five rags. They are about 8 to 15 cm long and relatively narrow compared to other types of maple. The top of the leaf is dark green and smooth, while the underside has a lighter color and slight hair. In autumn, the leaves color in bright yellow to orange and red tones, which makes Acer stachyophyllum an attractive ornamental plant.

The flowers appear in spring, at the same time as the deciduous shoot or shortly afterwards. They are arranged in upright, grape-like inflorescences and have a yellow-greenish color. After pollination by insects, the fruits (Samaras) typical of ahorne are formed, which develop in late summer and are ripe in autumn.

Distribution and habitat

Acer stachyophyllum is native to the mountainous regions of Asia, especially in the Himalayan areas and in western China. The plant occurs at altitudes of 1,500 to 3,000 meters, where it thrives in mixed forests and along river banks. The tree prefers cool, moist conditions and well -permeable, nutrient -rich soils. In these habitats, it often grows together with other deciduous trees such as oaks and rhododendrons.

In China, Acer stachyophyllum occurs particularly in the provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan and Tibet. Here you can find the tree in moderate forests and in mountain valleys, where it contributes to the stability of the ecosystems as part of the local vegetation.

Ecological meaning

In its natural environment, Acer stachyophyllum plays an important role in the ecosystem. The flowers are a valuable source of food for pollinators such as bees and bumblebees, while the winged seeds fuck and small mammals serve as food. In addition, the extensive root systems contribute to the stabilization of slopes and bank areas, which is crucial for protection against erosion in mountainous regions.

Acer stachyophyllum also has ecological importance in the cultural landscape. In gardens and parks in which it is planted, the tree contributes to biodiversity by creating a habitat for insects and birds. Its ability to adapt to different environmental conditions makes it a valuable plant in both urban and rural environments.

Use in garden culture

In western garden culture, Acer stachyophyllum is still relatively rare, but is becoming increasingly popular due to its decorative properties and robustness. The tree is particularly appreciated because of its autumn leafy coloring and decorative inflorescences. It is suitable as a solitaire plant in gardens and in larger parks, where it has an impressive effect planted in groups.

The tree prefers a sunny to partially shaded location and a well -permeable, slightly acidic floor. It is relatively easy to care for and does not require a regular cut, apart from the removal of dead or damaged branches. Due to its origin from altitudes, Acer stachyophyllum is Frosthart and can easily survive temperatures up to -20 ° C.

Threats and protection

Although Acer stachyophyllum is not directly threatened in his homeland, long -term changes due to climate change or the loss of natural habitats could affect the stocks. In China, however, there are protective measures that aim to maintain the preservation of the natural forests in which this tree occurs.