Field maple
The field maple, also known to older generations as the "Maßholder," is a widespread native tree. With a maximum height of 10–15 meters, it is one of the smaller trees.
The field maple is mainly found on the edges of forests and, as its name suggests, in areas that are heavily influenced by agriculture. Here, it is one of the most important structure-forming trees and is often one of the first to establish itself and support the growth of other trees. In cleared landscapes, it is extremely important for bird breeding and, due to its dense foliage, is a significant cover plant for wild animals. It is also frequently used for greening road embankments and dams. Due to its remarkable adaptability and low demands on the prevailing soil conditions, it has proven itself for this use.
- Origin: Europe
- Height: 10–15 meters
- Leaves: 3–5 lobes; up to 8 cm long and 10 cm wide; dark green; containing milky sap; bright yellow autumn color, sometimes with orange and red tones
- Flower: May; yellow-green panicles together with leaf budding; up to 12 cm long, multi-flowered hanging clusters
- Fruit: August–September; samaras remain on the tree until winter
- Soil/location: heat-loving; undemanding in terms of location and soil conditions; tolerates prolonged drought; sensitive to waterlogging
