Shantung Maple
Acer truncatumfam. Sapindaceae
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Pl. 529C — Acer truncatum
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IOverview
Overview
Shantung Maple (Acer truncatum) belongs to the Sapindaceae family and is native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, China Southeast, Inner Mongolia, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, and Sakhalin. This deciduous tree thrives in full sun to partial shade, prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay), and is hardy in zones 3-8. Known for its ornamental value and as a source of edible seeds, the Shantung Maple also has documented medicinal uses. One distinctive feature sets it apart: its leaves, which are deeply lobed and resemble those of other maples but with a unique shape that can be quite striking.
Quick answers
What is Shantung Maple?
Shantung Maple (Acer truncatum) belongs to the Sapindaceae family and is native to regions including Amur, China North-Central, China Southeast, Inner Mongolia, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, and Sakhalin.
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.
Digestive Harmony
digestiontincture
Traditionally used for digestive support.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Shantung Maple 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. The plant can reach a height of 8 meters and is native to areas including Amur, China North-Central, China Southeast, Inner Mongolia, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, and Sakhalin. Propagation can be achieved through seed.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-8
Mature size
8.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Shantung Maple for the first time
8steps
Start with planting a Shantung Maple in your garden for its beautiful foliage and easy care.
- 1
What you'll need
Shantung Maple saplings, well-draining soil, mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the ground is workable but not frozen.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your planting site has light to partial shade with moist, well-draining soil. Amend heavy clay soils with sand or compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings in the spring after the last frost. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week, more often in dry periods. Fertilize with compost or slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Prune only if necessary to remove dead or diseased branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to maintain the tree's shape and health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, not providing enough mulch, neglecting to prune when needed.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The Shantung Maple's seeds are edible and can be eaten raw or roasted. They are often used in various culinary preparations to add a nutty flavor to dishes.
Other uses:CompanionPreservative
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 8 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Amur, Sakhalin
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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