One of the most beautiful sights in our woods and forests has got to be the native Vine Maple, Acer circinatum.
Typically a multi-stemmed large shrub with telltale maple leaves and elegant tiered branching, it is often found along waterways, gracefully reaching its branches out over the water, or in the fall providing a soft yellow glow in the dappled light beneath towering conifers.
Flowers of wine-red and white form along the branches in the spring, contrasting with the red sheaths covering the yet-to-emerge leaves, giving a colorful show in the garden, especially along with the reddish new woody growth; soft green leaves follow. In the fall, A. circinatum can take on a variety of vibrant color, from soft yellow in shady spots to eye-popping orange/red when sited in more sun.
Several variations of Acer circinatum have been discovered growing in Pacific Northwest forests and gardens and have been cultivated for their unique characteristics.
First discovered in Portland and named after its founder, ‘Monroe’ has the finely cut leaves of a delicate Japanese maple. Slightly shorter than the species, it matures at 12-15’. (Photo credit: Pat Breen, Oregon State University).
This Vine Maple takes the early reddish growth to whole a new level! Stems are a bright coral red throughout, contrasting with the yellow of the autumn foliage and making a fiery statement in winter. Photo credit to Stanley & Sons Nursery.
Stocked year-round, larger sizes available mid-November through April – best planted October through April.
Family: Vine Maple
Characteristics: Symmetrically-lobed and toothed leaves, soft green sometimes tinged with red in spring, turning to yellow/orange/red in the fall. Dainty red and white flowers adorn bare branches in early spring. Grows as single or multi-stemmed large shrub/small tree; bark greenish to red, with tiered branching reminiscent of Japanese Maples.
Culture: Grows naturally as an understory tree in forests but is adaptable to a variety of settings. Best in acidic soil rich in organic matter, with regular water and protection from afternoon sun.
Size: Whether single or multi-stemmed, Acer circinatum rarely get taller than 20’, making it an especially useful plant for smaller, urban gardens, even suitable for large containers. Moderate growth – 1-2’ a year – means it achieves its mature size relatively quickly and can fill a niche in the woodland garden readily.
Pests and diseases: Mostly pest and disease free; however like other maples, it can become afflicted with Verticillium Wilt, but not commonly-so. Leaves will burn if exposed to full afternoon sun, with insufficient irrigation.
We offer a great selection of Northwest Natives from spring through fall. The plants featured are highlighted favorites, but they do not represent ALL of the plants we carry. For a more complete list, see our Northwest Native Plant List.
