Description
Latin Name: Acer tataricum
Family: Aceraceae
Native Range: Asia and eastern Europe
Seed Source: Seed production orchard near Indian Head Saskatchewan.
Height and Spread: 5m x 4m (25 years)
Overview: Tatarian maple grows best in moist well-drained soil, but tolerates a variety of soils, poor soil fertility, and is pH adaptable. The 'Redwing' tatarian maple seed strain was selected for its tolerance to dry and alkaline soils. Its name reflects the bright red samaras. It tolerates shade but develops a better fall color if grown in full sun.
Fruits: Fruit samaras are 1.5-2.5 cm long, held in small panicles, and red to brown in colour.
Average number of seeds/packet: 125
SEED TREATMENT / SOWING
Stratification: Soak the seed for 24 hours and then stratify in moist sand at 5°C for 120 days. For May 1 sowing start stratification January 1.
Ideal sowing time: Spring (stratified seed) or fall (non-stratified)
Sowing instructions: Outdoors - sow 1.0 cm deep, 50 seeds/meter; Greenhouse - sow 3 seeds per cell.
Growing conditions: Best growth on medium-textured soils with soil pH 7.0 to 8.0. Fertilization is not required.
Agroforestry Value
'Redwing' tatarian maple is used in farm or field shelterbelts where a fast-growing, flood tolerant, tough tree is needed. The main ornamental value of 'Redwing' tatarian maple is its red fall color and fruit. This is an excellent, low-growing tree for small yards. It is sometimes used for hedges or screens.
