Friday, March 7, 2014
CHINESE MONEY MAPLE
A very ornamental bushy, pyramidal deciduous tree reaching around 33 feet, that is native to moist shady forests of central China where it is endangered. It is a relative of the Acer - Maples. Some records include: largest on record - 53 x 44 feet with a trunk diameter of 1.5 foot. It has been found in fossilized form in Washington State where it occured long ago before getting wiped out in the last Ice Age.
The handsome large, feathery, pinnate leaves, up to 24 inches in length, are composed of up to 17 leaflets, up to 5 x 2 inches.
The pale green with white stamen flowers are borne in clusters, up to 12 inches in length.
They are followed by showy large bundles of bright green winged fruits that eventually turn deep red. The fruits resemble that of Elms more than of Maples which they are related to.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun preferring deep, moist, fertile, well drained soil. Prefers to be sheltered from excessive wind. It thrives in England and likely would in the eastern U.S. as well. Few pests or diseases bother this plant other than root rot which may occur on stressed plants ( potential of prevention with using the beneficial Trichoderma fungi )
Propagation from seed sown immediately upon ripening. Propagation can also be achieved by cuttings or layering.
* photo of unknown internet source
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