Maple
Acer monofam. Sapindaceae
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Pl. 0C6A — Acer mono
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IOverview
Overview
Acer mono, commonly known as the Amur maple, belongs to the Sapindaceae family and is native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast, Korea, Japan, and parts of Mongolia. This deciduous tree thrives in moist conditions with a preference for light or partial sunlight, making it adaptable to various soil types ranging from sandy to clay. Known for its ornamental value due to the attractive red autumn foliage, the Amur maple also has edible qualities, as its leaves and sap are consumable. Additionally, it has documented medicinal uses, contributing to its significance in traditional practices.
Quick answers
What is Maple?
Acer mono, commonly known as the Amur maple, belongs to the Sapindaceae family and is native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast, Korea, Japan, and parts of Mongolia.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Maple and Lady's Bedstraw
skintincture
Traditionally used for skin conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Maple (Acer mono) thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 3-8, making it suitable for temperate regions. For propagation, maple can be grown from seeds or through cuttings. The plant reaches a height of about 15 meters and its leaves and sap are edible parts that can be enjoyed.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-8
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Maple for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Maple sapling and basic care to enjoy its beauty.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Maple sapling, garden gloves, a spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring before new growth starts or in late fall after leaves have fallen.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with well-draining soil that is light, medium, or heavy. Ensure the area gets full sun to partial shade.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling in early spring or late fall, digging a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead or damaged branches in late winter before new growth starts to maintain the tree's shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular watering during dry periods, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSap
Edible uses: The maple tree (Acer mono) offers edible leaves and sap. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked in various dishes. The sap is often collected and boiled down to make a sweet syrup, similar to that derived from sugar maples. Skip the medical claims and focus on these basic uses.
Other uses:Fire starterPreservativeLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
11 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
11 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 11 native
Asia4 regions
native (4)ChinaJapanMongoliaSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Amur, Khabarovsk, Primorye
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
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