Three Flower Maple

Acer triflorum, the three-flower maple, is a small, slow-growing deciduous tree with three-part leaves and bark that peels in long strips. Its autumn foliage and winter bark make it a distinctive specimen for a garden with room for a small shade tree. ## Landscape Use Mature-size estimates vary: the [University of Florida IFAS](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST057) lists 20–25 feet tall with an equal spread, [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/acer-triflorum) lists 20–30 feet tall with a similar spread, and [North Carolina State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/acer-triflorum/) gives 25–30 feet tall and wide. Plan for a crown approaching 30 feet across. In full sun the form is generally rounded and compact; in shade it may grow more upright and spreading. It can also be trained as a large shrub. ## Seasonal Interest Small greenish-yellow flowers appear in spring in clusters of three, followed by paired, winged samaras. The dark green, three-leaflet foliage turns yellow, orange, and red in fall, sometimes with purple tones. The gray-brown bark peels in long strips and remains ornamental after leaf fall, giving the tree winter interest. ## Siting and Soil Choose full sun to partial shade and acidic, moist, well-drained soil. Avoid compacted ground and sites that stay wet. Hardiness reports vary: sources place the species from USDA Zone 3b through Zone 9, depending on region. Water needs also differ in published accounts: [Wisconsin Horticulture](https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/three-flowered-maple/) describes some drought tolerance once established, while [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/acer-triflorum/) cautions that it is drought intolerant. Provide regular moisture during dry periods. ## Maintenance Little pruning is usually required. [UF/IFAS Extension](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST057) advises planting in well-drained soil and notes that the tree has a shallow root system; avoid soil compaction and prolonged wet conditions. Remove damaged or crossing branches as needed, and transplant in spring or early fall rather than during summer heat.