Velvet Maple
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

Velvet Maple is moderate in growth rate, oval in shape, becoming a tall tree, growing 50-80' tall and 50-70' wide (or to 130' tall in its native range). Has a clean, vigorous form, holding its good green foliage color all summer. Symmetrical growth. Growth rate is moderate.

Native Range

Native to the Caucasus, Azerbaijan, Eastern Georgia (the country near Russia), and northern Iran. It grows in the moist Caspian Hyrcanian mixed forests. Common roadside and street tree in Russia.

Flower and Fruit Details

Yellow-green flowers in 3-4" terminal clusters, appearing after the leaves. Fruits are paired, 1.5" samaras with spread wings at right angles, hanging in clusters at maturity.

Leaf and Bark Features

Deciduous: Leaves are opposite, simple, 5-lobed, 2-8" across, margins coarsely toothed, bright green on top, and velvety, bloomy-pubescent beneath, with a long, reddish petiole. Leaves resemble Acer pseudoplatanus. Very nice, green summer foliage display. Burnt orange to brown fall color is not outstanding. Bark is thin, smooth and gray. Not ornamental.

Culture and Care

Prefers moist soil, in full sun to light shade. Hardy to Zone 5(6). Insects and diseases are not common, but possible problems include aphids, scale, borers and verticillium wilt.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Other Facts

Good wildlife value. 3-season interest: Spring, Summer, and Fall.

Suggested Uses

Could be used as a shade tree

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA