Acer distylum
Acer distylumfam. Sapindaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Always consult a qualified clinician before using any herbal preparation — especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, while on medication, or for children. How we source & review →
Pl. 14C2 — Acer distylum
Acer distylumAcer distylumAcer distylumAcer distylumAcer distylumAcer distylumAcer distylumAcer distylumAcer distylumAcer distylumAcer distylumAcer distylumAcer distylumAcer distylum
IOverview
Overview
Acer distylum, known as Skip in English and belonging to the Sapindaceae family, is a deciduous tree native to Japan. It thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun, making it adaptable to various environments within its hardiness range of 6-9. The tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and is notable for both its edible sap and documented medicinal uses. Its ability to tolerate a variety of soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—makes it a versatile addition to gardens or landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Acer distylum?
Acer distylum, known as Skip in English and belonging to the Sapindaceae family, is a deciduous tree native to Japan. It thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun, making it adaptable to various environments within its hardiness range of 6-9.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stresstincture
Historically used for calming the mind and reducing anxiety.
Digestive Comfort
digestiondecoction
Traditionally used to soothe digestive issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Acer distylum thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 6-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. The tree can reach a height of 15 meters and produces edible sap. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for best growth. SKIP
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Acer distylum for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Skip in a sunny spot and basic care for a rewarding beginner experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip saplings, garden soil, mulch, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early fall when the weather is cooler and more stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure well-draining soil with a mix of light, medium, and heavy textures. Amend as needed for drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant skip saplings directly into the garden after any risk of frost has passed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Mulch around the base for moisture retention and weed control.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring before new growth starts, focusing on removing dead or crossing branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Planting too deep, overwatering, neglecting mulch application, not providing enough sunlight, and pruning at the wrong time.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Sap
Edible uses: Sweetener
Other uses:Preservative
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
XSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Sapindaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Sapindaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 14c23c13-ee27-4418-b550-151e3c8c9633
Decision aid
Choosing between Acer distylum and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.