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Striped maple (goosefoot maple)
By Bill Cook, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses |
Striped Maple Trees
Here is some basic info you should know about striped maple trees.
How Big Will a Striped Maple Grow?
The striped maple, also known as the goosefoot maple, moosewood, and whistlewood, is a small maple that can grow to heights of between 15 to 35 feet. Many of the trees do reach heights above 30 feet, though. One of the tallest striped maples ever documented was 65 feet tall. It had a circumference of four feet and six inches. It was discovered in the area of Black Mountain, in Kentucky, in the early part of the 1900s (before 1920). It is also a high-priority tree for conservation in many states. (Source: USDA Forest Service
It is a maple that is also preferable as a shade tree over a timber tree.
When Do Striped Maples Bloom?
The striped maple can flower anywhere between late spring into early summer. Flowering occurs when the leaves of the tree are nearly grown to their full size.
What Do the Flowers Look Like?
The flowers themselves are bell-shaped and are a green-yellow color. The buds of a striped maple are a red-maroonish color. The seeds change to a brown-tan color later on, around the time when the tree matures in early autumn.
Where Do Striped Maples Grow?
As for the regions where it grows, the striped maple is mainly found in Southeastern Canada, the Northeastern United States, and throughout parts of the Appalachian region. It has been seen growing in the wild as far south as Georgia. The tree can also be found in forested regions of Michigan, Minnesota, Kentucky, Ohio, and a few other states. (Learn more: USDA Plants Database
Leaves, Bark, and Colors
One of the unique features of the striped maple is the appearance of its leaves and its bark. The leaves can be up to seven inches long and are shaped like the foot of a goose, which is where the alternate name of the tree, goosefoot maple, comes from. The bark of the tree is striped—the origin of the tree's name—and the striping is especially noticeable in the young bark with its green and thin white striping and streaks. As the tree gets older, the bark changes to a brown-grey-like color.
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| Plant Image Library, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons |
Growing Striped Maples From Seeds
Like other maples, this tree develops 'winged' seeds, which can be collected and used to grow new trees in a manner similar to other breeds of maple trees, with the environment where the tree is planted being the difference. However, success rates can be low even for professional and experienced tree growers. Regardless, it's still worth trying if you find a striped maple that you want to grow on your property. Like with most trees, the "easiest" way is to use the cold stratification method, which can be the most successful method of preparing the seeds for growth. (For more information: University of Maine Extension
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Growing Requirements of Striped Maples
• The best environment for a striped maple is in the shade, not in full sun, and planted in well-drained soil.
• The tree also thrives better in an environment with moisture, but not standing water, in the soil. This is like what is typical of a dense forest and many glens.
• When grown in partial shade, the tree is more likely to reach its maximum height. While in shaded areas, it'll have an appearance similar to a shrub.
• The tree is very beneficial to wildlife in terms of food, habitat, and other benefits. Rabbits and hares, squirrels, deer, and moose being just some of the wildlife that feeds on parts of the striped maple. So the young trees may require some protection from wild animals, but they will be perfectly fine once the tree is larger.
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Medicinal Uses for Striped Maple Bark
The bark is useful as a tea that has been historically used to treat coughs, kidney ailments, bronchitis, and treatment of acne.
Disclaimer: It's best to consult a doctor for treatment of any health issues you may have.
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| Striped Maple Growing Range By Elbert L. Little, Jr, USGS [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons |
Comparing Striped Maple to Other Native Maples
| Feature | Striped Maple | Sugar Maple | Red Maple | Silver Maple |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 15-35 feet | 60-75 feet | 40-60 feet | 50-80 feet |
| Light Requirements | Shade to partial shade | Full sun to partial shade | Full sun to partial shade | Full sun |
| Leaf Shape | Goose-foot shaped (3-lobed) | 5-lobed, palmate | 3-5 lobed, toothed | 5-lobed, deeply cut |
| Bark Characteristic | Green with white stripes (young) | Gray, furrowed (mature) | Smooth gray (young), scaly (mature) | Gray, flaky |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate | Slow | Fast | Very fast |
| Fall Color | Yellow | Orange, red, yellow | Bright red | Yellow |
| Best Use | Understory, wildlife habitat | Shade tree, syrup production | Ornamental, shade tree | Fast shade, wet areas |
| Wildlife Value | High (deer, moose, rabbits browse) | Moderate (seeds eaten by wildlife) | High (seeds, buds for birds) | Moderate (seeds for wildlife) |
Summary
The striped maple is a unique and valuable native understory tree that offers distinct ornamental and ecological benefits. With its characteristic goose-foot shaped leaves and striking striped bark, it stands out among North American maples. While smaller than its relatives like sugar and red maples, the striped maple excels in shaded woodland environments where larger maples struggle. Its high wildlife value makes it particularly important for forest ecosystems, providing crucial browse for deer, moose, rabbits, and other animals. Whether you're interested in native landscaping, supporting local wildlife, or simply appreciating this distinctive tree in its natural habitat, the striped maple is worth getting to know. For more information on growing native trees, consult your local extension service or native plant society.
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Historical and Cultural Significance
The striped maple has a rich history of use and significance among indigenous peoples and early settlers of North America. Native American tribes, particularly those in the northeastern woodlands, valued this tree for multiple purposes beyond its medicinal bark.
Indigenous peoples recognized the striped maple as "moosewood" due to its importance as winter browse for moose and deer. The Iroquois and other tribes used the inner bark not only for medicinal teas but also as an emergency food source during harsh winters. The young twigs were sometimes chewed for their slightly sweet taste.
Early European settlers learned from indigenous knowledge and adopted the tree's medicinal uses. The bark tea became a folk remedy in Appalachian communities, where it was believed to have cooling properties beneficial for fevers. Some communities called it "whistlewood" because children would fashion the smooth young branches into whistles in spring when the bark was loose and easy to slip off.
In traditional woodland management, the striped maple served as an indicator species—its presence signaling rich, moist, well-drained forest soils ideal for other valuable timber species. Foresters and naturalists learned to read forest health through the vigor of understory species like striped maple.
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Detailed Wildlife Relationships
The striped maple plays a crucial ecological role as a food source and habitat provider for numerous wildlife species throughout its range.
Mammals:
• White-tailed deer and moose heavily browse on striped maple twigs, leaves, and bark, especially during winter months when other food sources are scarce. In some areas, heavy browsing pressure from deer can limit striped maple regeneration.
• Snowshoe hares, cottontail rabbits, and porcupines feed on the bark and young stems, particularly in late winter.
• Red squirrels and chipmunks collect and cache the winged seeds, inadvertently aiding in seed dispersal.
• Black bears occasionally strip the bark in spring to access the sweet cambium layer beneath.
Birds:
• Ruffed grouse consume the buds and catkins, especially during winter.
• Various songbirds including finches, grosbeaks, and sparrows feed on the seeds in fall.
• Yellow-bellied sapsuckers drill characteristic rows of holes in the bark to feed on sap and attract insects.
• Warblers and vireos forage for insects attracted to the tree's flowers and foliage.
Insects:
• The flowers provide nectar and pollen for native bees, small wasps, and flies in late spring.
• Several species of moths and butterflies, including the rosy maple moth, feed on the foliage during their caterpillar stage.
• Striped maple serves as a host plant for various native insects that form part of the forest food web.
The tree's role as browse and shelter makes it particularly valuable in forests recovering from disturbance, providing essential resources while larger trees mature.
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Common Pests and Diseases
While striped maple is generally a hardy and resilient tree, it can occasionally be affected by pests and diseases, particularly when stressed by environmental conditions.
Common Pests:
• Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects may colonize new growth in spring, causing leaf curl and producing sticky honeydew. Usually controlled naturally by predatory insects like ladybugs.
• Scale Insects: Can appear as small bumps on branches and stems. Heavy infestations may weaken young trees.
• Leaf Miners: Insect larvae that tunnel between leaf surfaces, creating winding trails or blotches. Rarely causes serious damage.
• Japanese Beetles: May feed on foliage during summer, though striped maple is not a preferred host.
Disease Issues:
• Verticillium Wilt: A soil-borne fungal disease that can cause wilting, yellowing leaves, and branch dieback. Look for streaking in the sapwood. Infected branches should be pruned and destroyed.
• Anthracnose: Fungal disease causing brown spots and patches on leaves, especially during wet springs. Usually cosmetic and doesn't require treatment.
• Powdery Mildew: White, powdery coating on leaves in late summer, particularly in shaded, humid conditions with poor air circulation.
• Root Rot: Can occur in poorly drained soils or areas with standing water. Prevention through proper site selection is key.
Signs of Trouble:
• Unusual yellowing or browning of leaves outside of fall
• Premature leaf drop
• Oozing or bleeding from bark
• Sudden wilting of branches
• Visible fungal growth or cankers on bark
Most issues can be prevented by planting in appropriate conditions (shade, well-drained soil) and avoiding mechanical damage to the bark, which can invite disease. Healthy trees in suitable habitats typically resist pests and diseases naturally.
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Seasonal Care and Maintenance Tips
Striped maple requires minimal maintenance when planted in appropriate conditions, but following these seasonal guidelines can help ensure healthy growth.
Spring (March-May):
• Inspect trees for winter damage, particularly broken branches or bark damage from wildlife browsing.
• Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
• This is the best time to plant new striped maples, as soil moisture is typically high.
• Watch for emerging leaves and flowers—a good time to observe pollinators visiting the tree.
• Avoid fertilizing unless soil tests indicate deficiencies; striped maple thrives in naturally rich forest soils.
Summer (June-August):
• Water young trees (1-3 years old) during extended dry periods, providing deep soaking once weekly rather than frequent shallow watering.
• Monitor for pest activity, particularly aphids and Japanese beetles.
• Avoid pruning during active growth unless removing dead or damaged wood.
• Maintain mulch layer to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature.
Fall (September-November):
• Enjoy the yellow fall foliage display.
• Collect seeds if you wish to propagate new trees—harvest when the winged samaras turn brown but before they fully drop.
• Late fall (after leaf drop) is an acceptable time for corrective pruning if needed.
• Remove fallen leaves only if disease was present; otherwise, leave them to naturally enrich the soil.
Winter (December-February):
• Protect young trees from deer and rabbit browsing using tree guards or fencing.
• Avoid walking or driving heavy equipment over root zones when soil is frozen, as this can compact soil and damage roots.
• Observe the attractive striped bark, which stands out beautifully against snow.
• Plan any landscape changes or new plantings for spring.
General Maintenance Notes:
• Striped maple rarely needs pruning; only remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
• The tree naturally forms a multi-stemmed or small single-trunked form—allow it to develop its natural shape.
• Avoid soil compaction around the root zone; this understory species is adapted to undisturbed forest floors.
• Keep lawn mowers and string trimmers away from the trunk to prevent bark damage.
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Landscaping Uses and Design Ideas
The striped maple offers unique ornamental value and is particularly well-suited for specific landscape applications where many other trees struggle.
Ideal Landscape Settings:
• Shade Gardens: Striped maple excels as an understory tree beneath taller deciduous trees like oaks, hickories, or taller maples. Its tolerance for shade makes it perfect for multi-layered woodland gardens.
• Woodland Borders: Use as a transitional species between manicured lawns and natural woodland areas, helping create a naturalized aesthetic.
• North-Facing Slopes: The cooler, shadier conditions on north-facing areas of your property are ideal for striped maple.
• Stream Banks: In areas with naturally moist (but not waterlogged) soil near streams or ponds, striped maple can provide erosion control and wildlife habitat.
• Wildlife Gardens: Essential for native landscaping focused on supporting local wildlife, particularly where browsing mammals and songbirds are desired.
Companion Plants:
Striped maple pairs beautifully with:
• Woodland wildflowers: Trillium, bloodroot, wild ginger, Solomon's seal
• Native ferns: Christmas fern, maidenhair fern, ostrich fern
• Shade-tolerant shrubs: Spicebush, witch hazel, mountain laurel
• Groundcovers: Wild ginger, foamflower, partridgeberry
• Other understory trees: Flowering dogwood, redbud, serviceberry
Ornamental Features:
• Four-Season Interest: Green and white striped bark (especially striking in winter), goose-foot shaped leaves, yellow-green spring flowers, yellow fall color
• Textural Contrast: The bold, large leaves provide excellent contrast with fine-textured ferns and delicate wildflowers
• Vertical Element: Adds height to shade gardens where most plants are low-growing
Design Considerations:
• Plant in clusters of 3-5 for a more natural appearance rather than as single specimens
• Allow 8-10 feet between trees to accommodate mature spread
• Works well in naturalized areas but may look out of place in formal gardens
• Consider sight lines in winter when the striped bark is most visible
• Excellent for creating privacy screens in shaded areas where evergreens won't thrive
Not Recommended For:
• Full sun locations or exposed sites
• Formal landscapes or manicured settings
• Street tree plantings
• Small yards where a single specimen tree is needed (striped maple is best appreciated in groups)
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Detailed Propagation from Seeds
Growing striped maple from seed requires patience and attention to detail, but it's a rewarding way to propagate this native tree.
Seed Collection:
• Timing: Collect seeds (samaras) in late summer to early fall (August-September) when they turn from green to brown or tan
• Selection: Choose seeds from healthy, vigorous trees; viable seeds should feel plump and full, not hollow
• Testing: Drop seeds in water—viable seeds sink while empty or damaged seeds float
• Storage: If not planting immediately, store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 months
Cold Stratification (Essential for Germination):
• Duration: Seeds require 60-90 days of cold, moist stratification to break dormancy
• Method 1 - Outdoor: Sow seeds in fall in a protected outdoor bed; natural winter conditions will stratify them
• Method 2 - Refrigerator: Mix seeds with moist (not wet) sand or peat moss in a sealed plastic bag; refrigerate at 34-40°F for 60-90 days
• Check weekly for moisture and mold; seeds should remain barely moist throughout stratification
Sowing:
• Timing: Spring (March-April) for refrigerator-stratified seeds; seeds naturally stratified outdoors will germinate when conditions are right
• Medium: Use a well-draining seed starting mix or a blend of peat, perlite, and compost
• Depth: Plant seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep
• Spacing: If sowing in trays, space seeds 2 inches apart
• Moisture: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Location: Place in bright, indirect light or partial shade; avoid direct sun
Germination:
• Timeline: Expect germination in 2-6 weeks after stratification period ends
• Temperature: Ideal germination temperature is 60-70°F
• Rate: Germination rates typically range from 30-60% even under ideal conditions
Seedling Care:
• First Year: Keep in partial shade; transplanting too early can shock delicate seedlings
• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture; seedlings are sensitive to drought
• Fertilizing: Light feeding with diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season
• Protection: Shield from direct sun, strong wind, and browsing animals
Transplanting:
• When: Move to larger containers or permanent location after 1-2 growing seasons when seedlings reach 8-12 inches tall
• Timing: Early spring or fall are best for transplanting
• Technique: Minimize root disturbance; plant at the same depth as in container
• Aftercare: Water thoroughly and mulch; provide shade cloth if planting in summer
Success Tips:
• Patience is key—striped maple is slow-growing initially
• Mimic natural conditions: shade, moisture, and rich organic soil
• Starting multiple seeds increases chances of success
• Don't give up on seeds that don't germinate the first spring; some may emerge the following year
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Climate Adaptability and Tolerance
Understanding the striped maple's climate preferences and tolerances is essential for successful cultivation, especially as growing conditions change.
Hardiness:
• USDA Zones: 3-7 (some sources extend to zone 8 in cooler microclimates)
• Cold Tolerance: Extremely cold-hardy; can withstand temperatures well below -30°F
• Heat Tolerance: Moderate; struggles in prolonged heat above 90°F, especially without shade
Moisture Requirements:
• Prefers consistent moisture but tolerates neither drought nor waterlogging well
• In natural settings, typically found where annual rainfall exceeds 35 inches
• During establishment (first 2-3 years), supplemental watering during dry spells is beneficial
• Mature trees are somewhat drought-tolerant in shaded locations but may show stress in prolonged dry periods
Soil Adaptability:
• pH Range: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 5.5-7.0)
• Texture: Thrives in loamy, well-drained soils rich in organic matter
• Can tolerate clay soils if drainage is adequate
• Struggles in compacted, sandy, or nutrient-poor soils
Pollution Tolerance:
• Low tolerance for air pollution, road salt, and urban stressors
• Not suitable for street tree plantings or areas with heavy vehicle traffic
• Best in protected, naturalized settings away from pollution sources
Climate Change Considerations:
• Range Shift: As temperatures warm, striped maple may gradually shift northward and to higher elevations
• Increased Stress: More frequent droughts and heat waves in southern portions of range may reduce vigor
• Phenology Changes: Earlier spring emergence may increase vulnerability to late frosts
• Positive Aspects: In northern areas, longer growing seasons may benefit growth
• Forest Dynamics: Changes in overstory tree composition due to climate change will affect suitable habitat for this shade-loving understory species
Adaptation Strategies for Gardeners:
• In warmer zones (6-7), provide extra shade and consistent moisture
• Mulch heavily to moderate soil temperature and retain moisture
• In areas experiencing more frequent droughts, consider drip irrigation for established trees
• Plant in naturally cooler microclimates (north-facing slopes, near water bodies)
• Choose seed sources from slightly warmer regions if available, as these populations may be better adapted to future conditions
Regional Performance:
• New England/Atlantic Canada: Excellent; thrives in natural range
• Great Lakes Region: Excellent in suitable habitat
• Appalachian Mountains: Excellent, especially at higher elevations
• Mid-Atlantic (zones 6-7): Good with proper siting and care
• Southern Range Edge: Increasingly challenging; requires optimal conditions
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Expanded Medicinal Uses and Traditional Remedies
The medicinal use of striped maple bark has a long history in traditional North American herbalism, though scientific research on its properties remains limited.
Traditional Uses:
• Respiratory Conditions: Bark tea was traditionally used for coughs, bronchitis, and general respiratory congestion. The infusion was believed to have expectorant properties.
• Kidney and Urinary Issues: Indigenous peoples and early settlers used the bark tea to support kidney function and address urinary complaints.
• Skin Conditions: External applications of bark preparations were used for acne, rashes, and minor skin irritations.
• Digestive Support: Some traditional uses included mild digestive upset and as a gentle tonic.
• Fever Reduction: The tea was considered cooling and used to reduce fevers.
Preparation Methods:
• Bark Tea (Decoction): Simmer 1-2 teaspoons of dried inner bark in 1 cup of water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink up to 3 times daily.
• Tincture: Traditionally prepared by soaking bark in alcohol (vodka or grain alcohol) for 4-6 weeks, then straining.
• Poultice: Fresh or moistened dried bark applied directly to skin for external conditions.
Active Compounds:
While not extensively studied, striped maple bark likely contains:
• Tannins: Astringent compounds that may explain traditional use for skin conditions
• Flavonoids: Antioxidant compounds common in many medicinal plants
• Various minerals and trace elements
Modern Perspective:
• Limited Scientific Research: Unlike some medicinal plants, striped maple hasn't been subject to extensive modern pharmaceutical research.
• Anecdotal Evidence: Most knowledge comes from historical use and folk tradition rather than clinical studies.
• Sustainability Concerns: Harvesting bark can damage or kill trees; ethical foraging practices are essential.
Important Safety Information:
• Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications.
• Pregnant or nursing women should avoid use without medical supervision.
• Quality and Identification: Only use bark from properly identified striped maple trees; misidentification could be dangerous.
• Sustainable Harvesting: Never girdle a tree (remove bark all around the trunk), as this will kill it. If harvesting, take only small amounts from branches that are being pruned anyway.
• Allergic Reactions: As with any plant material, some individuals may have allergic reactions.
Legal and Ethical Considerations:
• Harvesting from wild populations may be regulated in some areas, especially where striped maple is a conservation priority.
• Never harvest from public lands without permission.
• Consider growing your own trees if interested in traditional medicinal uses.
Alternatives:
• For respiratory and skin conditions, many other well-researched medicinal plants may be more appropriate and sustainable choices.
• Commercial herbal products with documented safety profiles may be preferable to wild-harvested bark.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The historical uses described do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns.
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Conservation Status and Efforts
While striped maple is not currently endangered range-wide, it holds conservation significance in several states and faces various ecological pressures.
Conservation Priority Status:
• High-Priority for Conservation: Designated in many states throughout its range, particularly at the southern edges
• State-Level Protection: Some states list it as a species of special concern or include it in forest stewardship programs
• Not Federally Listed: No federal endangered or threatened status, but recognized as ecologically important
Threats and Challenges:
• Overbrowsing: Heavy deer populations in many areas severely impact striped maple regeneration. Intensive browsing can eliminate young trees before they mature.
• Habitat Loss: Conversion of forests to development reduces available habitat, particularly in southern portions of range
• Forest Fragmentation: Breaking up of continuous forest creates edge effects that may not favor shade-loving understory species
• Climate Change: Warming temperatures and changing precipitation patterns may reduce suitable habitat, especially at southern range limits
• Invasive Species: Competition from invasive understory plants may limit striped maple in some areas
• Logging Practices: While not a timber species, striped maple can be impacted by harvest of overstory trees that create its preferred shade conditions
Why Conservation Matters:
• Ecosystem Role: As an important browse species and understory component, striped maple supports forest health and wildlife populations
• Biodiversity Indicator: Its presence indicates healthy, diverse forest ecosystems
• Carbon Storage: Like all trees, contributes to carbon sequestration
• Genetic Diversity: Maintaining healthy populations preserves genetic variation that may be important for adaptation to future conditions
Conservation Actions:
• Deer Management: Controlling deer populations through hunting programs and exclosures helps protect regenerating striped maples
• Forest Stewardship: Sustainable forestry practices that maintain appropriate canopy cover benefit understory species
• Habitat Protection: Preserving large, continuous forest tracts ensures suitable habitat
• Native Plant Landscaping: Using striped maple in appropriate home landscapes helps preserve the species outside natural forests
• Research: Ongoing studies of population dynamics, climate adaptation, and ecological relationships inform conservation strategies
What You Can Do:
• Plant Native: Include striped maple in naturalized landscape designs where appropriate
• Support Conservation: Contribute to or volunteer with local land trusts and conservation organizations
• Respect Forest Habitats: When hiking, stay on trails to minimize disturbance to understory vegetation
• Advocate: Support policies that protect forest ecosystems and manage deer populations sustainably
• Spread Awareness: Share knowledge about native trees and their ecological importance
• Ethical Wildcrafting: If collecting seeds or studying trees, do so without damaging plants or removing them from wild populations
Regional Conservation Programs:
Many states with striped maple populations have forest stewardship programs and native plant initiatives. Contact your state forestry department, native plant society, or local extension office to learn about specific programs in your area.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can striped maple grow in full sun?
A: No, striped maple is adapted to shade and partial shade conditions. When grown in full sun, it typically struggles, shows poor growth, may develop leaf scorch, and won't reach its full height potential. It's best planted under the canopy of larger trees.
Q: How fast does striped maple grow?
A: Striped maple is a slow to moderate grower. Young trees may add 6-12 inches per year under ideal conditions, but growth is highly dependent on light, moisture, and soil quality. Trees typically take 10-15 years to reach significant size.
Q: Can I tap striped maple for syrup like sugar maple?
A: While technically possible, striped maple is not recommended for syrup production. The trees are too small, produce less sap, and have lower sugar content than sugar maples. Tapping would also stress these smaller trees disproportionately.
Q: Why is my striped maple losing its bark stripes?
A: This is natural! The distinctive green and white stripes are most prominent on young bark. As the tree matures, the bark gradually darkens to brown-gray. The striping is most visible on trees roughly 5-15 years old.
Q: Will striped maple attract deer to my yard?
A: Yes, deer find striped maple very palatable and will browse on it, especially in winter. Young trees may need protection with fencing or tree guards. However, this also makes it valuable for wildlife habitat if you want to support local deer populations.
Q: Can striped maple survive in my urban yard?
A: It depends on conditions. Striped maple struggles with urban stressors like pollution, compacted soil, heat islands, and road salt. It's better suited to suburban or rural settings with naturalized landscapes, away from roads and with protected conditions.
Q: Is striped maple a good choice for a small yard?
A: It can be if you have appropriate shade conditions. Since it stays relatively small (15-35 feet), it fits better in smaller spaces than larger maples. However, it looks best planted in groups rather than as a single specimen, so you'd need room for multiple trees.
Q: How do I tell striped maple apart from other maples?
A: Key identifying features include: 1) Green bark with thin white vertical stripes when young, 2) Large leaves (up to 7 inches) shaped like a goose's foot with 3 lobes, 3) Preference for shade, 4) Smaller stature than most maples. The bark pattern is the most distinctive feature.
Q: Can I grow striped maple from a cutting?
A: Striped maple is difficult to propagate from cuttings and has low success rates. Seed propagation with proper cold stratification is much more reliable and is the recommended method for home gardeners.
Q: Why are the leaves on my striped maple turning yellow in summer?
A: Several possible causes: 1) Not enough water during dry periods, 2) Too much sun exposure, 3) Nutrient deficiency (though uncommon in rich soil), 4) Root problems or damage, or 5) Disease. Check soil moisture first and ensure the tree is in adequate shade.
Q: Is striped maple native to my area?
A: Striped maple is native to southeastern Canada, the northeastern United States, and portions of the Appalachian region south to Georgia. Check the USDA Plants Database or your local native plant society to confirm if it's native to your specific location.
Q: How long do striped maples live?
A: Striped maples are relatively short-lived for trees, typically living 40-60 years in the wild. Some specimens may reach 80-100 years under ideal conditions, but this is uncommon.
Q: Will striped maple damage my foundation or pipes?
A: No, striped maple has a relatively shallow, non-aggressive root system and stays small. It poses minimal risk to foundations, pipes, or sidewalks compared to larger trees with more extensive root systems.
