Acer pensylvanicum, commonly known as Striped Maple or Moose Maple, is a charming understory tree native to the northeastern United States and eastern Canada. Revered for its striking ornamental features and unique characteristics, this small deciduous tree or large shrub typically reaches heights of 15 to 25 feet with a spread of 12 to 20 feet. Its enchanting white-striped bark not only adds vibrant visual interest during the winter months.
Striped Maple thrives in zones 3 to 7, flourishing in part to full shade environments and preferring well-drained, slightly acidic soils with consistent moisture. Noted for its yellow, showy springtime flowers, the Acer pensylvanicum serves as an early nectar source for native bee species, enhancing the biodiversity within shaded woodland gardens or naturalized areas. As a larval host plant for the Imperial Moth, it also plays a vital role in supporting local wildlife.
This tree's distinctive, obovate leaves feature three lobes with finely toothed edges, turning bright yellow in the fall and contributing to its visual allure. Known for its low maintenance requirements and excellent shade tolerance, it's perfect for gardeners seeking a unique feature with potential wildlife value. This exquisite tree not only provides food and habitat for moose, deer, and various small mammals but also enriches any garden with its graceful presence, creating multi-layered vertical diversity in wooded landscapes.
