Aeryn Trident Maple
(Acer buergerianum 'Aeryn') Story and Photos by Bill Haws
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Fall color display by 'Aeryn' Trident Maple and summer foliage (inset photo) W
hile the planting of large shade tree species is a priority in most communities, oftentimes, small
to medium sized tree species are better suited when narrow tree lawns, close building facades, utilities, and other site variables exist. One tree that satisfies this niche is 'Aeryn' trident maple (Acer buergerianum), a cultivar introduced in 2005 that has demonstrated excellent performance in Savannah, Georgia.
Trident maple is native to China and grows in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 9, with a rounded form and mature size of 40 feet (12.19 m) tall by 30 feet (9.14 m) wide. Nursery trees are grown in both multi-stem and tree form. Characteristics of this species include full sun to partial shade light requirement, good range of soil tolerances, resistance to breakage, minimal mainte- nance, resistance to pest/disease problems, distinctive exfoliating bark, and fall color range of yellow, orange, and red. While this tree species has many desirable qualities as a street tree, seedling grown trident maples
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are highly variable in growth habit and form. 'Aeryn' trident maple is a medium to fast growing cultivar that will provide the consistent performance and appearance needed for successful urban streetscapes.
Southern landscapes are well known for breathtaking spring floral displays. The mention of fall color, how- ever, evokes visions of the splendor of autumn in the Northeast. Since the mid-1990s, this urban forestry transplant from the North Country has made a conscious effort to plant trees to not only diversify Savannah's landscape but provide opportunity for striking fall color. Over time and through extended field trial, 'Aeryn' tri- dent maple has proven itself worthy of consideration in urban landscapes. Give it a try and I'm sure you'll agree!
—Bill Haws, Forestry Administrator, City of Savannah Park & Tree Department, Savannah, Georgia
City Trees
