Hedge Maple (Acer campestre) also known commonly as Field Maple is a tree native to much of Europe. It is a deciduous tree reaching 25-35 ft. tall, with finely fissured, often somewhat corky bark. This bushy headed generally low-branched tree is quite variable in habit. The green leaves are arranged in opposite pairs, 2-4” wide, with five blunt, rounded lobes with a smooth margin. Casting dense shade this tree provides a bright yellow fall color display. Hardy to zone 6.
The flowers are produced in spring at the same time as the leaves open, yellow-green, in erect clusters 4-6 cm across. The fruit is a samara with two winged seeds 1.25-1.75” long arranged in nearly straight line.
Hedge Maple is adaptable to many soil types. (Alkaline, acidic as well as dry or compacted sites) Not susceptible to air-pollution and urban conditions. Transplants easily. Great for use in a small residential lawn tree, also used as a hedge (hence the name) Note: seeds germinate readily.
*Acer campestre ‘Panacek’ Metro Gold™ Maple - Hardy to zone 6 and 35 feet tall and 20 feet wide, forming an upright oval canopy, brighter yellow fall color and does not seed as readily as the species.
*Acer campestre ‘Evelyn’ Queen Elizabeth™ Maple at 35 feet tall and 30 feet wide this variety is a more compact and upright variety than the species.
The role of trees in providing beauty and shade in our communities and neighborhoods is widely appreciated. But what is less generally understood are the many vital and often unseen things trees do to make our cities and towns more pleasant and healthful places in which to live.
In the community, trees:
Reduce Energy Costs - Trees have been called the “low tech” solution to energy conservation. Shade from trees reduces the need for air conditioning in summer. In winter, trees break the force of winter winds, lowering heating costs.
Studies have shown that parts of cities without cooling shade from trees can literally be “heat islands,” with temperatures as much as 12 degrees Fahrenheit higher than surrounding areas.
Clean the Air - Trees produce oxygen that we breathe. In addition, trees remove air pollution by lowering air temperature, by releasing water into the atmosphere, and by retaining particulates. By reducing the need for heating and cooling systems, trees also reduce emissions that contribute to atmospheric carbon dioxide and the greenhouse effect.
The ideal time to plant trees and shrubs is during the dormant season—in the fall after leaf drop or early spring before budbreak. Weather conditions are cool and allow plants to establish roots in the new location before spring rains and summer heat stimulate new top growth. However, trees properly cared for in the nursery or garden center, and given the appropriate care during transport to prevent damage, can be planted throughout the growing season. In either situation, proper handling during planting is essential to ensure a healthy future for new trees and shrubs. Before you begin planting your tree, be sure you have had all underground utilities located prior to digging.
Whether the tree you are planting is balled and burlapped or is bare root, it is important to understand that its root system has been reduced by 90 to 95 percent of its original size during transplanting. As a result of the trauma caused by the digging process, trees commonly exhibit what is known as transplant shock. Transplant shock is indicated by slow growth and reduced vigor following transplanting. Proper site preparation before and during planting coupled with good follow-up care reduces the amount of time the plant experiences transplant shock and allows the tree to quickly establish in its new location. Carefully follow eight simple steps, and you can significantly reduce the stress placed on the plant at the time of planting.
With origins in southern Japan Camellia sasanqua is a great shrub. When compared to the Camellia Japonica this is a smaller growing variety. (6-10’ tall and wide) A densely pyramidal shrub with many uses including a colorful hedge, screen, and border shrub it also does well as an espalied plant.
Plant in a highly organic well drained soil. Preferring partial shade, the glossy green leaves are considerably smaller than the japonica varieties. The flowers emerge a bit earlier than the C. japonica varieties and range in flower color from white to red, to pink and are 2-3” in diameter.
Camellia sasanqua ‘Yuletide’
Some of the most commonly available varities:
‘Setsugekka’ Flowers large white demi-double with wavy edges. Upright.
‘Yuletide’ Bright red single flowers, blooming in December. Upright.
‘Shishi Gashira` Rose semi-double blooms. Flowers are perfect for cutting. Low spreader. Late blooming variety.
