Acer tataricum

Acer tataricum belongs to the family of Sapindaceae. This species of diligent tree or shrub is largely native to Eastern Europe, Central Asia and Siberia. Due to its resistance to extreme climatic conditions and its decorative autumn coloring, Acer tataricum is often used in landscape design. Its ecological properties and its adaptability make it an important plant in both natural and cultivated environments.

Morphology

Acer tataricum is a medium -sized shrub or tree that reaches heights of about 6 to 10 meters. It can be up to 12 meters high in optimal conditions. The tree forms a wide, rounded crown with expansive branches. The bark is smooth and greenish-brown in young trees, and in older specimens it develops a cracked, gray-brown texture.

The leaves of Acer tataricum are not low compared to other types of maple, but rather oval or egg -shaped with smooth or slightly teased edges. They are about 5 to 10 cm long and 3 to 6 cm wide. The top of the leaf is dark green and smooth, while the underside is colored lighter and slightly hairy. In autumn, the foliage accepts spectacular colors, which range from bright yellow to deep red and orange, which makes Acer tataricum particularly striking this time of year.

The flowers appear in late spring, typically in May or June, and are arranged in upright, panicle -like inflorescences. The flowers are small and greenish and white. After the pollination, which is mainly done by insects, the fruits (Samaras) typical of ahorne develop. These winged seeds are about 2 to 3 cm long, reddish colored and are spread through the wind in autumn.

Distribution and habitat

Acer tataricum is located in a wide geographical area that extends from Eastern Europe to Caucasus to Central Asia. It is often found in open forests, on forest edges and in steppe -like landscapes, often at high altitudes of up to 1,500 meters. The tree prefers well -permeable, nutrient -rich soils, but can also thrive on sandy or loamy soils. Acer tataricum is extremely adaptable and occurs in both dry and moist habitats, which makes it particularly resistant to extreme environmental conditions.

In Europe, it grows primarily in the southeastern regions, including parts of Hungary, Romania and Ukraine, while in Asia it occurs to the western part of China and Kazakhstan. The plant tolerates both summer heat and winter cold and can survive temperatures up to -30 ° C.

Ecological meaning

In its natural habitats, Acer tataricum plays an important role in the ecosystem. It offers nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies and serves as a source of food for various birds and small mammals that feed on the winged seeds. The tree also contributes to the stability of floors and can contribute to the attachment of slopes and shores in erosion -prone areas.

In cultivated environments, especially in gardens and urban landscapes, Acer tataricum serves as an ornamental plant and is valued for its decorative autumn color and resistance to urban environmental conditions. The tree tolerates urban loads such as air pollution and soil compression and requires little care.

Use in garden culture

Acer tataricum is often used in parks, gardens and street plantings. The tree is particularly popular because of its beautiful autumn color, which makes it a striking decorative element in the landscape. Due to its compact growth shape, it is suitable for both smaller gardens and for larger parks.

The tree prefers sunny to partially shaded locations and thrives in most soil types as long as the floor is well permeable. It is relatively undemanding and does not require intensive cut, apart from the removal of dead or damaged branches. Acer tataricum is also resistant to most pests and diseases, which makes him an easy -care choice for landscape design.

Threats and protection

Although Acer tataricum is not directly threatened as a species, long -term changes such as climate change or fragmentation of habitats could affect its stocks. However, the tree is widespread in large parts of its natural distribution area and is considered robust compared to various environmental conditions.