Three-Flowered Maple

(Acer triflorum)

Three-Flowered Maple (Acer triflorum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 49" - 59"
High Temp. 75°F - 83°F
Low Temp. -4°F - 19°F
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Summary

Acer triflorum, commonly known as Three-Flowered Maple, is a deciduous tree that is often smaller than its maximum height of about 25 meters (82 ft). It is native to mixed forests and mountain regions in Korea and parts of China. This species is notable for its exfoliating yellowish-brown bark, which peels in woody scales, and its exceptional fall color, which can include brilliant orange, scarlet, purple, and gold hues. The leaves are trifoliate, with a central leaflet that is the same size as or slightly larger than the two side leaflets, all with serrated margins. The yellow flowers are produced in small corymbs of three, giving the tree its name. The samaras are broad and hairy, with a woody nutlet. Three-Flowered Maple is valued for its ability to develop vibrant fall color even in shaded conditions.

In cultivation, Three-Flowered Maple is appreciated for its ornamental bark and stunning autumn display. It is used in gardens and parks, often as a specimen tree or for adding fall interest in shaded areas. It grows at a slow to moderate rate and has a shrub-like growth habit in cultivation. This tree is relatively drought-tolerant and can handle clay soils better than its relatives. However, it does not tolerate wet or over-compacted soils. For best results, it should be planted in full sun to part shade, with medium water requirements and well-drained soil. Propagation is challenging due to the low viability of seeds, similar to Acer griseum.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 25-30 feet
  • Width: 25-30 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Mixed forests and mountain regions in Korea and parts of China

Other Names

Common Names: Three-Flower Maple, Roughbark Maple, Dreiblütiger Ahorn, Klöverlönn, Threeflower Maple, 복자기나무, 나도박달

Scientific Names: Acer triflorum, Acer truncatum var. barbinerve, Acer lobulatum var. barbinerve, Acer triflorum var. subcoriaceum, Acer triflorum f. subcoriacea, Acer triflorum subsp. subcoriacea, Acer triflorum var. triflorum, Acer truncatum f. barbinerve, Crula triflorum

GBIF Accepted Name: Acer triflorum Kom.