Genus Maple(Acer) unites about 150 species of deciduous trees and shrubs, of which about 25 can be found on the territory of Russia. Tree species are mainly large monoecious, dioecious and polyecious trees up to 30 - 40 m high, with a trunk diameter of up to 1 - 2 m, with a thick, round-cylindrical (if growing in freedom) crown. Leaves are opposite, petiolate, entire or pinnately compound. The shape of leaves and fruits (lionfish) is the main species characteristic. Maples generally live 150 - 200 years (in rare cases - up to 500 years).
Maple forests, or maple trees, in the tree composition of which maple predominates, are found in the zone of broad-leaved and mixed coniferous-deciduous forests of Western Europe, North Africa, Asia, North and Central America. In Russia - in the European part on Far East. The total area of our maple forests is about 440 thousand hectares with a timber reserve of about 38 million m3. Maple usually participates in the formation of mixed stands, most often forming the second tier.
In Russia, maple forests are most often found in the southern part of the forest zone of the European part, where the share of maple trees is 0.01 - 0.3% of the forested area (the average for Russia is 0.07%) with a maximum (up to 4%) in the Urals and on the western foothills of the Southern Urals.
Maple is a coreless, sapwood, dispersed vascular species. The central zone of the trunk is practically no different from the peripheral zone either in color or in water content. The wood of sycamore (white maple) is white, sometimes with a yellowish tint, shiny, in other species it has a reddish or brownish tint, turning yellow over time under the influence of sunlight. Annual layers are noticeable in all sections. Narrow heart-shaped rays of a brownish color are especially visible in a radial section. They look like a continuous mosaic of shiny spots and ribbons, giving the maple wood a peculiar silky pockmarked appearance.
Maple wood has a uniform structure, mainly with straight annual layers in a radial section. The late wood of the annual layers is darker in color than the early wood, but they do not have a clear boundary.
Maple is a medium-drying wood species. Indicators of physical and mechanical properties of small samples without defects - the average values for maple are: base density - 570 kg/m3. The highest density was recorded for the American sugar maple (Hard maple) 705 kg/m3 (at a humidity of 12%), the lowest also for the American species - ash maple (Acer negundo) - 513 kg/m3.
In terms of its strength characteristics, maple is somewhat superior to oak. Tensile strength (at a humidity of 12%): when stretched along the fibers - 80 - 140 MPa; when stretched across the fibers - 13.3 MPa.
Ability to hold fasteners (resistance to pulling out nails and screws) at the level of hardwood species - oak, beech and ash.
The bending ability of maple wood is assessed as good (almost the same as that of beech wood), but when steamed it changes color - it acquires a yellowish-brown tint.
In terms of resistance to biological damage, maple is classified as a low-resistant species; the resistance coefficient in relation to linden is 2.1. Protective compounds satisfactorily soaked. The shape and size stability of maple wood products is average to good.
During the drying process, maple wood tends to crack and warp, so careful selection of the drying regime is required. It is recommended that freshly sawn materials be pre-naturally dried in stacks protected from sunlight and precipitation to a humidity of 20 - 25%. High-temperature drying conditions are also not recommended because maple lumber under these conditions changes its color (turn yellow). Maple also turns yellow when exposed to sunlight, and quite quickly.
Due to its high uniform density, straightness and uniform distribution of properties throughout the volume, maple wood is well processed by all types cutting tools, perfect for turning and carving work, excellent grinding and polishing. It adheres well, tinted, painted and varnished.
Among hardwoods, maple wood is considered one of the most valuable. Masters have long treated it with respect. For example, the Trojan horse, known from Greek mythology, was made by the Greeks from maple. The use of maple is limited only by its low biostability and tendency to change color. The last drawback can be eliminated by using various mordants and stains.
Maple wood is used to make furniture. Well dried, it exhibits good stability of shape and size indoors, so one of the most popular products made from it are countertops, in particular for restaurants and cafes. Together with other valuable species, it is used for inlay as contrasting details. It combines well with oak and fruit species (cherry, pear, apple), and it combines well with beech if parts from these species do not directly touch. Combines with metal and glass parts.
Maple parquet is especially valued for its high hardness and wear resistance. American sugar maple is used to make floors in dance halls, bowling alleys, etc. Maple is very good for making stairs and interior decoration parts.
Maple is an excellent material for carving. It is highly resistant to chipping, so very fine cuts can be made on its wood, and the cuts are crisp, clean and smooth, with a soft glossy sheen. Moreover, they can be done in any direction, with almost no fear of chipping. Maple is widely used for crafts and kitchen utensils - spoons, ladles, carved and turned vessels. They are made by oars, tool handles, blocks hand planes, measuring and drawing instruments.
In the old days, a comb was made from maple wood for combing yarn, on which more than two hundred very thin and long teeth were cut. Great skill and the greatest caution were required. The comb was scraped, cleaned and sanded and then impregnated for strength. linseed oil and dried.
In modern production, maple wood is used to make skis and gun stocks, decorative wooden sculptures with fine modeling, and woodcuts.
For musical instruments Sycamore maple, or white maple, which grows in the Caucasus and Carpathians, is widely used. Its wood has a beautiful textured pattern, especially in radial and semi-radial cuts, and has high acoustic and mechanical properties. Sound propagates in it at the same speed both across and along the fibers. The backs, sides, necks and stands for bowed instruments: violins, cellos, double basses, violas and others are made from sycamore maple. Veneer is produced from Canadian or sugar maple, sometimes with a very fancy texture called “bird's eye”.
American maple
American maple(Hard Maple) - botanical name: Acer saccharum, Acer nigrum. Other names: sugar maple, black maple.
The sugar maple is the official state tree of Wisconsin, Vermont, New York and West Virginia. In the northern United States, when the warm days and cold nights of late winter arrive, maple trees are cut to extract sap, which contains sucrose and is the source for maple syrup. It takes thirty gallons of juice to make one gallon of syrup. One maple tree produces 12 gallons of sap per year. The first American settlers used maple ash to make soap, and the Indians made their spears from sugar maples. From the first days of colonization, maple began to be widely used in furniture production. Sugar maple is the standard wood for cutting boards because it doesn't add flavor to food and has good durability.
Native to the eastern United States, mainly the Mid-Atlantic and Great Lakes states. The cold-loving tree prefers to grow in northern climates. The average height is 40 meters. Represents 4% of industrially used hardwood species in the United States.
Main applications: parquet, solid boards, lining, Wall panels, furniture, flooring for gymnasiums and bowling alleys, kitchen cabinets, countertops, cutting boards, toys, kitchen utensils, interior decoration, stairs, handrails, decoration elements, doors.
Creamy sapwood white with a slight reddish-brown patina, the heartwood color varies from light to dark red-brown. The amount of darker brown heartwood may vary depending on the growing region. Both sapwood and heartwood can have heart spots (or wormholes). The wood has a fairly good uniform grain with generally straight grains, but scroll, treble clef and birds-eye patterns can sometimes be found.
Sugar maple dries slowly with a lot of shrinkage, which can lead to displacement during operation. When using nails and screws, pre-drilling is recommended. With some care, it lends itself well to machine and turning, adheres satisfactorily, and shows excellent results when polished. It is well varnished and covered with enamel paints and brown dyes.
The wood is hard and heavy with good strength properties. Wood is particularly resistant to wear and abrasion. It also bends well when steamed. Wood is widely available. Availability restrictions may exist for high quality white lumber (sapwood). Patterned maple (bird's eye, scroll, treble clef) is available in commercial quantities only in the form of veneer.
About 20 species of maples grow in Russia. Some of them are popular in landscaping gardens, parks, and public gardens. (pictured maple trees in Japan)
The name maple comes from the Latin “acer”, which means sharp, or having leaves with sharp blades.
These are trees or shrubs with simple or compound leaves on long petioles.
Gardeners have long paid attention to it, since the plant is very beautiful - some species have different leaf shapes and colors, original inflorescences and fruits, and an unusual pattern of bark and shoots. In autumn, maple leaves change color and delight us with yellow, orange, and red leaves.
It’s nice to sit on a bench under a maple tree and watch in the autumn silence how the winged fruits fall, spinning in the breeze like small helicopters.
In winter, when the leaves have fallen, the garden is decorated with the unusual structure and color of the bark.
Some types of maple are used to produce maple syrup and sugar. The syrup contains minerals such as sodium, magnesium, iron, manganese, calcium, potassium, zinc and phosphorus, B vitamins and thiamine. Maple is a good honey plant, so it is often planted near the apiary.
If you want to buy a maple from a nursery that is distinguished by high-quality, healthy seedlings or order a large-sized maple, we recommend contacting our partners.
Gardeners often use the following types and varieties of maple for landscaping:
Norway maple or sycamore.
The maple received this name due to the fact that the shape of the leaves is similar to the leaves of a plane tree. It has a straight and even trunk, a lush and neat crown, and a clearly defined leaf shape. Modern breeders based on Norway maple have created many beautiful varieties with unusual leaf colors.
The spherical shape of the Norway maple is very popular, in which the crown has the appearance of a dense green ball. It constantly retains its spherical shape, so it does not need to be trimmed or shaped, you just need to remove dried or broken branches.
Norway maple varieties with golden or purple foliage are also beautiful. For example, the maple varieties “Krimson King” and “Faassen’s Blasc” have purple leaves. . The purple color pleases the eye from spring to late autumn, as it stands out against the background of other green plants.
And here variety "Drummondii" has a white border on a green leaf . An unusual tree that brings the effect of freshness and coolness thanks to its unusual coloring. And even if planted in the shade, it will retain its variegated color, while the leaves of other similar plants will be simply green, not decorative.
But still, this maple prefers a lighted place. Settles well in a new place, not whimsical. 
Sugar maple or silver maple.
This is a large beautiful tree with a powerful root system and an openwork crown. It develops quickly if it is planted as a tapeworm on open place. Interesting shape "Wieri", in which the leaves seem to be cut up, so the crown seems light, lush, openwork. 
False sycamore maple, or as it is also called - sycamore or plane tree.
This is a tall, handsome plant, reaching 25 m. It is interesting because the lower part of its leaf is light.
Very beautiful variety"Brilliantissimum" - has bronze-yellow foliage
. But in the spring, when the leaves just begin to bloom, they have a delicate pink-peach color, which enlivens the garden.
Varieties have variegated foliage "Leopoldii" and "Simon Louis Freres"
. They fit well in small gardens, as they are low-growing, unlike the main species - the false sycamore maple.
These sissies are not for the city, as they suffer from dust and gas and are afraid of frost. Therefore, only a caring owner of a private yard can nurture these trees, which in turn will reward you with their beauty. 
Red maple.
It can be called the king of blazing autumn, since at this time its leaves wear an elegant dark pink or red cape. Among the monotonous yellow-green or yellow autumn leaves This maple stands out from other plants and draws attention to itself.
And his varieties are even more beautiful. For example, The "Red Sunset" variety with bright orange-red leaves and a slender trunk will decorate any landscape.
Red maple also received the name “swamp”, as it can grow in acidic and swampy soils. 
Riverside maple or Ginnala
. It can be grown as a tree and as a bush that can reach 3-5 meters in height. Therefore, if you want to grow hedge, which in the fall will rise not with green columns of thujas, but with a yellow-red fence, then feel free to plant the Ginalla maple.
Near such a “warm” colored fence you just want to put a bench or make a gazebo; There won’t be any wind here, and it’s nice to drink tea with friends. And in the evening, if you light a fire, which will highlight the yellow-red leaves of the maple, the vibrancy of the colors will impress you for a long time.
In frosty winters, the ends of young branches often freeze, but in the spring they quickly recover. It is light-loving, saw- and gas-resistant, so it can be planted in urban areas. Propagating it is as easy as shelling pears - by root suckers or seeds. Not whimsical. 
Tatarian maple or black maple.
It was nicknamed Black Maple because its bark has a pronounced black color. So it is also decorative in winter, when the emphasis in the garden falls more on the color of the tree bark and the shape of the crowns.
But this is not all its privilege - the ripening winged seeds are pink and dark pink in color, they are large in size and collected in bunches, which is very reminiscent of unusual pink flowers against the background of green foliage. 
Ash-leaved or American maple.
In Russia it is not particularly valued, since it is widespread; its thickets are even called a weed. It has a loose, shapeless crown and brittle branches. But its beautiful varieties are very valuable.
Variety "Flamingo" - an unusual variety: its young leaves have a white-pink color, which looks very elegant. There are also yellow- and white-variegated forms, which are very relevant in our time, as they grow into neat, compact trees that do not need to be pruned and shaped. If branches with purely white or purely green leaves appear on them, they need to be removed urgently, as the variety may degenerate.
There is a golden form of the Flamingo variety, but it is advisable to plant it in a group with other decorative foliage plants to create contrast, since what is planted with tapeworm does not always attract the eye.
Ash maple, when heavily pruned, quickly regenerates and produces many shoots, so some gardeners form a hedge from it. 
Manchurian maple
. For many gardeners, it is the favorite of all maples. It has beautiful trifoliate leaves, colored yellow-red, Orange color sitting on red petioles. It is not recommended to trim and shape; this maple already looks slender and has a lacy, neat crown. Loves open, sunny places. 
Green maple.
Belongs to the group of snakebark maples, which also includes maple David's, reddish veined maple, snakebark and Pennsylvania maples.
Very decorative with its unusual color and texture of the bark.
It has a soft green color with thin marbled white stripes, which looks very exotic in our gardens. In the fall, the foliage turns bright yellow, which makes this maple stand out from other plants, and in the spring, beautiful panicle flowers bloom that attract bees. 
Japanese maple.
In Russia it is listed in the Red Book, since many varieties disappeared due to the Second World War. But you can buy it in nurseries and plant it on your site. This natural masterpiece can become the highlight of the garden. Japanese maple can grow either as a small tree or shrub.
It is afraid of frost, so it feels good only in the southern regions. So what is its charm? The fact is that in autumn its leaves acquire a bright, rich color - burgundy, purple, pink, with many shades and transitions. In Russia, it is more often used as a container plant, which perfectly decorates the entrance to a building, patio, gazebo, pergola, terrace.
The Japanese love maples very much, so any garden or park will not be left without such beauty. « Momijigari literally means hunting for red maples.» . Momoji means "red leaves" in Japanese.
Most bright shades The leaves of the kaede maple are introduced into the autumn palette, which is why in everyday life the Japanese often call the maple momiji. And gari means “hunting.” Momijigari - a walk to find the most beautiful maples."
Pictured are Japanese maples:
Folk signs and beliefs associated with maple.
In the old days, according to Slavic beliefs, any person could be turned into a maple after death, so this tree was valued and treated with care; Maple wood was not used to make household furniture, was not used for heating in stoves, and did not make coffins.
Serbian belief says that if a maple tree is hugged by an unjustly accused person, the maple tree will turn green and come to life, and if someone is offended or guilty, the maple tree will wither away.
Maple, as in the old days, is still used by the Slavs for spring holidays (Trinity). There is a belief that on this holiday the souls of Ancestors come to the house and hide in the maple branches that decorate the windows, doors, and gates.
If you look closely at a maple leaf, you will notice how it looks like a human palm with five fingers. And also the five ends of the maple leaf symbolize 5 conscious senses (sight, hearing, smell, taste, tactile sensations), which also reminds us of human life.
In the modern world, maple means restraint, tranquility and the arrival of autumn, since all the colors of maple “ripen” just in time for this time. In China and Japan, maple is a symbol of lovers. Isn't that why Japanese style Are maples often planted in the garden?
Maple for a woman can serve as a symbol young man- kind, faithful and affectionate. In Ukraine, a pair of maple and linden denotes a man and a woman. And if foxes fall off on a maple tree, then this was associated with discord and sadness.
Maples with their beauty have won the attention of writers, musicians, and artists, who wrote many poems and songs about them, and painted pictures with maples.
Do a KIND SHARE this page on social media. networks
In contact with
- Planting and care
- White
- Tatar
Acer, or maple, is a genus of more than 150 species of trees and shrubs, widespread in the Northern Hemisphere, including throughout the European part and in temperate latitudes of Asia. There are dozens of species of maple trees in Russia. Most of them are unpretentious, shade-tolerant, frost-resistant, love well-moistened fertile soils, but some also grow on poor soils. Most of these are deciduous shrubs and trees; there are several evergreen species in Central Asia.
Description
The height of maples reaches 40 m, depending on the type and environmental conditions, but plantings up to 10–15 m are more common. The trunks are usually thin, with light brown, brown or gray bark with small cracks, the crowns are dense, rounded and wide. The root system is powerful and developed, able to penetrate to great depths. These trees live for about 200 years, but in a favorable natural environment they can become long-lived - they can grow up to 500 years.
A distinctive feature of maples is the beautiful shape of the leaves. Most of them are large, palm-shaped - consisting of several blades, pointed or carved. In addition to the usual green color, the foliage of many species and varieties - Japanese, Norway maple (Royal Red, Kimson King and others) - has a purple, bright red or dark pink color. Maples are blooming in early spring, the inflorescences are thin light yellow or greenish panicles, the fruits are double lionfish with seeds, ripen in September.
Thanks to their beautiful decorative foliage, maples are suitable for landscaping: they are planted in gardens, parks, local areas with the aim of creating cozy beautiful landscapes, shade, and purifying the surrounding air from dust and pollution.
Maple wood is widely used in industry, being a practical and high-quality building material.
Types of maples
Among the species diversity of maples, several of the most common and popular are distinguished.
Holly
This species is one of the most famous, includes several varieties, and grows throughout the European part of Russia. Another name for maple: sycamore or plane-leaved - based on the characteristic shape of the leaves (pictured).
This type includes a lot decorative forms, differing in the height of the trunks, the size and density of the crown, and the shade of the leaves. Norway maple is picky about soil composition, prefers moderately moist fertile, slightly acidified soils, and does not tolerate sandstones and rocky soils. These trees reach a height of 20–30 m and have a wide, rounded crown. The bark is light gray, quite smooth in young maples, but becomes cracked with age. The size of the leaves is about 15–18 cm, they are located on long thin stalks, have a five-lobed shape with pronounced notches: the middle lobes protrude far forward, the lateral ones are slightly shorter. There are types of maple with hornbeam or ash-like foliage: small, serrated, elongated leaves arranged transversely on long cuttings.
IN autumn period green maple foliage acquires bright yellow, orange, red and burgundy shades, creating a picturesque natural carnival of colors. A five-lobed maple leaf is depicted in national flag Canada.
Trees grow quickly, especially in the first years after planting; their lifespan is up to 200 years. Norway maples are immune to the polluted air of cities, so they are suitable for landscaping streets and creating beautiful landscapes. They are planted along roads, in courtyards, in squares and parks.
Norway maple is distributed throughout European territory, Western Siberia, and the temperate zone of the North American continent.
American
This tree is widespread in the northern and eastern regions of the United States, being the official symbol of some states. Another name for the species is sugar maple. It is from the sap of its wood that the famous maple syrup is made, and lumber is used in construction. American maple is resistant to cold climates, can grow up to 30-40 m, has thick dark bark and a dense crown.
White
The performance characteristics of maple are quite high: it is not subject to warping and deformation, tolerates moisture well, and is resistant to shock loads.
Distributed throughout the world, it is often used in landscaping cities and suburbs. There are more than 150 types of trees, simple and decorative forms, which grow not only in the natural environment, but also in private gardens and parks.
Bearded
Bearded maple is a low tree from 5 to 10 meters, with a spreading crown and smooth dark gray bark. Light green foliage turns yellow with different color variations in autumn. The leaf blades are divided into several parts and have pronounced veins. 
This maple, more often than not, does not lose its decorative appearance throughout the year; it begins to bloom and bear fruit from the age of six. Flowers of both sexes bloom together with the leaves in racemose yellow inflorescences. The species has many advantages: unpretentiousness to the soil, resistance to winds and cold, rapid growth. Reproduction of the species is by seed, also by root shoots. The most common are two subspecies: Chonoski and Komarova. 
Ginnala (riverside)
Ginnala maple is increasingly found in urban plantings, as the plant calmly tolerates the conditions of a polluted and dusty environment and does not require careful care. It is frost-resistant, not afraid of wind; in winter the tips of the branches freeze, but in the spring it quickly recovers after sanitary pruning. 
The tree grows up to 10 meters, it has smooth and thin bark in its youth, with age tubercles and cracks appear, the color of the bark is light, brown. The foliage is green, glossy, and greenish-yellow flowers bloom along with the leaves. The leaves change color to bright orange and red in the fall. The tree bears fruit, the fruits are lionfish. How this maple reproduces - both by root shoots and... The plant is light-loving, grows well on the banks of reservoirs, and is a subspecies of Tatarian maple. 
Naked
One of the types of maple is naked, so named because of the small amount of foliage on the branches; they appear bare. The bark of the trunk and branches is reddish in color, the few leaves are heart-shaped, divided into three, sometimes five parts, with a jagged edge. The leaf blade is glossy on top, bright green, matte below, bluish in tone; in autumn the leaves lose their shine and become yellow-orange-red. 
Flowers of both sexes are yellow- Green colour collected in thyroid inflorescences, seeds - lionfish. The species reproduces by seeds, which remain viable for up to two years when stored. Known varieties: "Smiley","Keller", "Kearney Peebles", "Dippel".
Important! In winter, maple should be protected from severe frosts; this applies primarily to young plants. The trunk, along with the root collar, is covered with spruce branches and fallen leaves; as it grows, resistance to low temperatures will increase.
Palm-shaped (fan-shaped)
Fan maple has many varieties and varieties. Its distribution area is China, Korea and Japan. small tree or the shrub does not grow above ten meters, its crown can be round or umbrella-shaped, and lends itself perfectly to formative pruning. The shoots are thin, green with a red tint. The foliage is green only in summer, scarlet or purple in spring and autumn. The tree is flowering, but the inflorescences are sparse, the petals are red. The species is capricious: to moisture, does not tolerate drought, grows slowly. 
The following varieties of maple are common:
- crimson;
- pink-edged;
- curly;
- sessile;
- Friedrich Gwillelm.
Yellow
This species is also called maple-birch, as its inflorescences resemble birch catkins. The plant can grow as a tree and as a shrub, its height is up to 15 meters. The bark of the trunk is soft, scaly, gray-yellow. The leaves are divided into five parts, the underside is fleecy, the upper side is hairless. The leaf blade is large up to 12 cm in length, the color of the leaves is green with yellow tint. Inflorescences in the form of racemes-earrings of a yellowish tint. The maple in the description grows on almost any soil, is frost-resistant, and loves moisture.
Greenbark
Greenbark maple is valued for decorative look the bark is green, with stripes in young plants; unfortunately, with age, the bark takes on a gray color. Habitat: Korea, China and Primorsky Krai. The tree has a wide crown, spreading out in the shape of a dome. The dark cherry-colored branches are covered with delicate pink buds in spring. The leaves are large, divided into several parts. During the flowering period, the tree is strewn with pale green inflorescences. Maple fruits are seeds. 
For rapid growth, this species needs sunlight, loves moist, nutritious soils. The tree is part of the snakebark group, which, in addition to it, includes the Pennsylvania, David and Rufous-veined maples. 
Red
Grows in Japan. The tree is not picky about the choice of soil and can grow even in swampy areas. Feels great in cold climates. The height of the tree is no higher than 15 meters, the bark is gray, the crown is dome-shaped or cone-shaped. Not all maple varieties have red leaves; the foliage usually takes on this shade in the fall, like many trees. Purple foliage variety - "Red Sunset".
The most striking varieties:
- "Armstrong"- column-shaped crown with small foliage;
- Bowhall- bright orange foliage;
- "Brandywine"- dark, almost purple color of leaves in autumn;
- "Northwood"- leaves are red and orange.
False sycamore
False sycamore maple, also known as sycamore, is an interesting decorative species, but urban conditions are not suitable for it. He needs fresh air, neutral soil and moisture. Sycamore does not like frost and freezes, especially young branches, but in the sun it can grow up to 25 meters. 
Interesting subspecies of sycamore:
- "Brilliantissimum"- only the hatched leaves of the tender peach color, then acquire a shade of bronze;
- variegated maple varieties "Leopoldii" And "Simon Louis Freres", unlike the main species, feel great in city parks and gardens.
Holly
In its natural environment it grows up to 30 meters. The plant tolerates frost and dry periods well and is propagated by seeds and cuttings. 
The crown of the dome-shaped tree is thick and lush. The bark is gray-brown on mature trees with cracks and bumps, on young maple shoots it is red in color and smooth. The leaves are large, dense, dark green, with sharp edges. When blooming, the plant is covered with shield-shaped inflorescences of yellow-green flowers. The fruits are winged seeds. Popular: "Autumn Blaze", "Deborah" and "Drummondii". 
Field
Field maple is often used for landscaping city parks and alleys, due to its tolerance to gas pollution, dust and low height of about 15 meters. It is pleasant to relax under such a tree on a hot day; it is spreading with a wide conical crown. It has large, light green leaves divided into 5-7 parts. Immediately after the leaves bloom, the tree is covered with small, almost invisible flowers. Like the greenbark species, the bark of the field species has white stripes on a brown bark background. 
The species reproduces by seeds and root shoots. It is better to plant it in a place protected from drafts; during prolonged frosts, cover the trunk and trunk circle. Known forms:
- "Pulverulentum"- leaves are creamy with white chaotic splashes;
- "Carnival"- maple has leaves with a wide white border, young foliage blooms, having a pink tint;
- Postelense- characterized by a change in color of the leaves: it blooms with a golden color, then turns green and turns yellow again in the fall;
- "Schwerinii"- young leaves are bright red, turning green as they grow.
Did you know?According to Slavic pagan beliefs, after death, any person could be turned into a maple, so the tree was treated with exaggerated respect. Its wood was not used as firewood, nor was it made kitchen utensils and furniture, were not used in construction and agriculture.
Sugar (Silver)
Silver maple (lat. Ácer sacchárinum) is one of the tallest representatives of its family: it reaches a height of 40 meters. The plant has a wide, dense crown, gray, rough bark gray. The foliage is a bright gray-silver tone, the shade is duller on the underside. When blooming, the tree is covered with red-green inflorescences. 
Beautiful decorative plant forms:
- "Vieri". A tree with patterned silver-green leaves and a spreading crown. It is advisable to plant in places protected from the wind, as the branches are fragile.
- "Borns Graciosa". Low plant up to 15 meters. The lush, narrow crown is covered with heavily dissected leaves.
Tatar
This maple is decorative in any season: in spring it is covered with white leaves with yellow stipules, in summer - with bright green ovoid foliage, in autumn the tree is decorated with pink winged seeds, and in winter its decoration is the black color of the trunk. Plant height is 12 meters. Interesting feature species: it blooms foliage earlier than all varieties, and blooms later.
Thank you
Maple Holly found wide use in cooking and folk medicine back in the days of the Indians, who were the first to learn not only to extract maple sap and make sugar from it, but also to use the components of this tree in medicinal purposes. About what beneficial properties this tree has, how and for what diseases to use preparations from Norway maple - and we’ll talk further.
Description of the Norway maple plant
Norway maple is a deciduous tree with a wide and dense crown, belonging to the maple family and reaching a height of about 20 - 30 m. This tree can live longer than two hundred years.It is noteworthy that the bark of young trees is colored reddish-gray, while old trees are “dressed” in gray bark, dotted with small cracks.
The five-lobed leaves of the Norway maple are quite large, about 18 cm in diameter. On top, the leaves, sitting on a long petiole, are dark green in color, while below they are lighter.
But the greenish-yellow flowers of this tree are different small in size And correct form. Norway maple flowers are collected in neat corymbose inflorescences. The fruit of this tree is a flat lionfish with two wings.
In autumn, Norway maple leaves turn yellow, brownish-red and brownish. In early spring, maples begin to “cry” (release healthy sap that flows along the branches and trunk of the tree): thus, whitish sap is released in small quantities in places where the petiole breaks. Sugar and syrup are obtained from maple sap.
An interesting fact is that the “tears” of a maple tree can be used to predict the weather: if the maple tree “cries,” it means that it will rain in 2–3 hours.
Norway maple is most useful tree, the above-ground part of which is used in folk medicine. In addition, it has been proven that this tree retains harmful suspensions of heavy metals, as well as benzene vapors, in the air, thereby improving the current unfavorable environmental situation.
Where does it grow?
Norway maple is predominantly distributed in Eurasia. In Russia, the habitat of this tree is the North Caucasus in the south, and the southern border of the taiga in the north. In general, this is a fairly common plant in all areas without exception. middle zone Russia.It should be noted that Norway maple prefers broad-leaved or mixed forests, as well as forest-steppe zones with moist and fertile soils. At the same time, maple grows singly or in small groups, while it rarely forms pure stands (such stands are mainly found on the slopes of river and lake valleys). Most often, this type of maple can be found in oak groves located near forest ravines. Maple is a frequent companion of oak and ash in Russian forests.
It should also be said that Norway maple has found wide application in landscape gardening, where this tree is valued for its wide crown, which provides excellent shade, unpretentiousness to weather conditions (maple tolerates shade and cold well) and original foliage. So, in the summer the maple pleases with lush green foliage, and in the fall - with an abundance of bright colors, which replace each other before leaf fall.
Norway maple varieties
Norway maple has a large number of decorative forms that differ in color, as well as the shape of the foliage, the shape of the crown, the height of the trunk and growth characteristics.Drummond maple (Drummondii)
It has white-edged leaves that transform into pink when blooming. This type of Norway maple is distinguished throughout the entire growing season by its lush crown and variegated foliage color.Maple Globosum
This plant has a very dense and spherical crown that does not need pruning. This variety with its yellow-orange foliage is used primarily for creating single decorative groups and hedges.Maple Krimson King
This type of maple has dark purple (almost black) leaves that are pleasing to the eye throughout the growing season. When blooming, it displays blood-red and burgundy leaves that turn purple in the fall.Schwedler maple (Schwedlerii)
It has shiny blood-red foliage that turns dark green after blooming.Maple Royal red
This variety is popular for its decorative crown, which turns red in spring, contrasting with the yellow flowers.But if we talk about the use of Norway maple not in gardening art, but in folk medicine, then special attention deserves the sycamore maple (Acer platanoides), the properties, benefits and application of which will be discussed in this article.
Norway maple (Acer platanoides)
It is the sycamore maple (hereinafter simply Norway maple) that is rightfully considered the most famous and widespread of all its fellows. This large deciduous tree from the Maple family, which can reach a height of 30 meters, got its name from the Latin “acer”, which means “strong, sharp” (this name is most likely due to the properties of maple wood).
This tree with a dense crown, which grows wild in Europe, the Caucasus and the Balkans, dies early on dry and poor rocky soils. It will not take root in sands and salt marshes. But on moist and fertile soils, Norway maple will live for about 100 - 200 years, provided there are no such phenomena as salinity and stagnation of moisture in the soil.
It should be noted that this type of maple, which begins to bear fruit at the age of 17, is distinguished by its shade tolerance, wind and frost resistance: thus, the plant can withstand temperatures down to –40 degrees, without being damaged by either late spring or early autumn frosts.
The powerful trunk of the tree is covered with gray-brown bark. Maple leaves are located on thin petioles and have clearly defined veins. Maple leaves generally have five lobes ending in pointed lobes. Greenish-yellow maple flowers are collected in neat corymbose inflorescences located at the ends of the branches.
The bark, young leaves, fruits and flowers have medicinal properties (the seeds of the plant are less commonly used).
Norway maple collection
Norway maple blooms from April to May, while it bears fruit in September.Prepared young foliage in the first half of summer, that is, during the budding period of the maple, it is advisable to choose foliage with thin and not very juicy petioles (it is these petioles that contain maximum amount healing substances, and thick roots slow down the drying process). Only healthy leaves that are not damaged by insects or fungi are subject to collection. The leaves are dried in the sun and then dried in the air or in a well-ventilated area.
Bark maple is collected in the spring, or rather during increased sap flow and swelling of the buds. It is during this period that the bark is rich in healing substances. It is advisable to use young tree bark for medicinal purposes, since the old bark contains a large amount of cork tissue and quite a few active ingredients. Just as when collecting foliage, preference should be given to healthy areas of the bark that are not affected by lichens and do not have darkening on the inside.
Kidneys They are collected in early spring, when they have already swollen, but have not yet begun to grow intensively. And here are the blossoming buds healing properties practically none. It is important to dry the buds properly, for which they should be placed on long time in a cool and ventilated room, as in the warmth they will begin to bloom.
Flowers, which are the most delicate part of any plant, are collected by hand at the very beginning of the maple flowering (it is at this time that they contain many active substances, they withstand drying well, retaining their color and crumbling less during storage and processing).
After this, the flowers are folded into a loose and thin layer for drying, during which the raw materials must be protected from direct sunlight.
All of the listed parts of Norway maple can be dried in a dryer or oven at a temperature of 50 - 60 degrees.
Dried raw materials are stored in paper or clothes bags (you can also use closed wooden containers) for two years.
Composition and properties of Norway maple
TanninsAction:
- improve the digestion process;
- normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
- eliminate inflammation;
- fight bacteria.
Action:
- reduce the excitability of the central nervous system by inhibiting impulses passing through the autonomic nerve nodes;
- enhance contractions of uterine smooth muscles;
- improve the functioning of the muscular system;
- relieve hypertensive crises;
- normalize blood circulation;
- relieve joint pain;
- help stop bleeding;
- lower blood pressure.
They provide the body with energy: thus, these substances contribute to the normal metabolic process, which has a positive effect on the functioning of all systems of the human body.
Sugars are perfectly absorbed by the human body and are quickly absorbed into the blood, which helps to restore strength in the shortest possible time. In addition, sugar plant origin normalize the concentration of glucose in the blood and increase the body's defenses.
Organic acids
Action:
- carry out the biosynthesis of alkaloids, glycosides, and amino acids;
- improve digestion;
- slow down the course of both putrefactive and fermentation processes, which leads to regular bowel movements;
- strengthen blood vessels;
- remove toxins, heavy metals and waste;
- stimulate the formation of red blood cells;
- calm the nervous system.
Action:
- reduce the fragility of capillaries and increase their elasticity;
- regulate the functioning of the central nervous system;
- normalize blood pressure;
- restore normal heart rhythm;
- stimulate the functions of the adrenal cortex.
Lipids provide biosynthesis of hormones, without which the full functioning of the nervous system cannot occur.
Fatty acid
These substances have an energy function, because in the process of their decay energy is generated. Fatty acids also perform a plastic function, according to which they actively participate in the construction of membranes, which make up the cells of our body.
Carotene
The main task of carotene is to accumulate oxygen, which, during oxygen starvation, will be given to the cells and tissues of the human body. Carotene also strengthens the immune system and protects the body from negative influence free radicals, which significantly reduces the risk of developing cancer.
B vitamins
Action:
- normalize the functioning of the brain, central nervous system, cardiovascular, endocrine, muscular and digestive systems;
- provide cellular respiration;
- promote hemoglobin synthesis;
- improve lipid metabolism;
- strengthens hair, skin covering, nails;
- promote the production of so-called steroid hormones;
- promote the formation of red blood cells and antibodies;
- strengthen the immune system;
- regulate the functions of the hematopoietic organs;
- reduce the manifestation of allergic reactions;
- normalize blood pressure;
- prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.
Action: - normalizes the functioning of the central nervous system;
- stimulates the functions of the endocrine glands;
- promotes the absorption of such an essential element as iron;
- normalizes the process of hematopoiesis;
- removes harmful compounds that can trigger the development of malignant tumors.
Vitamin E
Action:
- reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases by preventing the formation of blood clots;
- normalizes the functions of the reproductive system;
- relieves menopausal syndrome;
- accelerates wound healing;
- regulates the biosynthesis of both RNA and proteins.
Action:
- increases immunity;
- participates in the construction of muscle tissue;
- ensures the synthesis of hormones and various enzymes.
Action:
- restores intestinal microflora;
- promotes the production of B vitamins;
- reduces the development of putrefactive and fermentation processes;
- normalizes metabolism;
- reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis;
- lowers cholesterol levels;
- improves blood flow directly in the pelvic vessels;
- normalizes the functions of the genitourinary system.
Properties of Norway maple
- Choleretic;
- diuretic;
- pain reliever;
- restorative;
- anti-inflammatory;
- wound healing;
- antiseptic;
- astringent;
- antiscorbutic;
- antiemetic;
- tonic;
- antibacterial;
- antipyretic.
The benefits of Norway maple
1.
Energizes and gives vigor, helping to improve tone. 2. Strengthens the effect of medications.
3. It has an antibacterial effect against gram-negative as well as gram-positive bacteria and viruses.
4. Helps enhance wound healing.
5. Relieves fever.
6. Eliminates joint pain.
7. Strengthens the immune system.
8. Helps break up stones in both the bladder and kidneys.
9. Strengthens hair follicles.
10. Relieves inflammation.
11. Removes sand from the kidneys.
It must be said that Norway maple is a storehouse of antioxidants, among which there are polyphenols that accelerate the recovery process of cancer patients.
The fructose content in the plant makes it possible to consume condensed maple sap for people suffering from obesity and diabetes.
Treatment using Norway maple
What does it cure?
Norway maple preparations help cure the following disorders and diseases:- wounds;
- abrasions;
- cold;
- kidney disease;
- bronchitis;
- diseases of the ENT organs;
- pneumonia;
- viral infections;
- hepatitis;
- radiculitis;
- inflammatory liver diseases;
- kidney stone disease;
- scurvy;
- stomatitis;
- inflammation of the gums;
- renal colic;
- bladder diseases;
- upper respiratory tract diseases;
- ulcers;
- bleeding.
Norway maple bark
Maple bark is used as an astringent for diarrhea, while a weak solution of ash, which is obtained from the bark of the tree, is rubbed into the scalp to enhance hair growth. Norway maple root bark also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Leaves
Maple leaves help relieve fever, tone the body and strengthen the immune system. In addition, ground freshly picked leaves of the tree are used as bandages and compresses applied to damaged areas of the skin. An infusion or decoction of maple leaves will help with renal colic and bladder diseases.Fruit
This part of the Norway maple is used for urolithiasis and kidney diseases as a tonic, as well as for colds, acute respiratory infections, ARVI and bronchitis as an anti-inflammatory, antiviral, diuretic and expectorant.Flowers
The flowers are used in the treatment of stomach and intestinal disorders.Applications of Norway maple
Decoction
A decoction of Norway maple leaves is used for diseases of the kidneys and nasopharynx, diseases of the bronchial tree, pneumonia, as well as viral infections, acute respiratory infections and hepatitis. A decoction of leaves and seeds is prescribed for diseases of the kidneys and upper respiratory tract. To prepare the decoction, pour a tablespoon of dry crushed raw materials into one glass of water and boil for half an hour. The cooled and strained broth is brought to its original volume with boiled water, and 2 tablespoons are taken. four times a day.
Infusion
An infusion of young leaves increases male potency, helps cure inflammatory liver diseases, stomatitis and diseases of the ENT organs. In addition, purulent and long-healing wounds are treated with infusion.1 tbsp. Fresh or dry maple leaves are poured with 200 ml of boiling water and infused for 20 minutes. The strained and cooled infusion is taken in a quarter glass 3 – 4 times a day.
Tincture
Alcohol infusion can cure or significantly alleviate the course of a disease such as radiculitis. The use of tincture is also recommended for the treatment of congestion in the pelvic area.20 g of Norway maple leaves are poured into 100 ml of vodka and left to infuse for four days. The product is taken orally 30 drops three times a day. The same remedy can be used to rub sore joints.
Norway maple sap
Maple sap is collected at the end of winter - beginning of spring (that is, in February - March), when the air temperature varies from -4 to +4 degrees (when the air warms up more and the positive temperature is finally established, the sap flow will stop). To collect thick and sweet sap, a hole is carefully made in the tree trunk, into which a plastic tube is inserted, through which the sap will flow into a bucket suspended from the trunk. During this period of time, one tree can produce such an amount of juice, from which 2–4 kg of sugar can be obtained.A week after collection, the maple sap will become thick, begin to become cloudy and acquire a sour, but pleasant taste. This juice can be stored for years.
Maple sap has bactericidal properties, due to which it is used in folk medicine as a natural antiseptic, which can be used to treat wounds, ulcers and abrasions, which will speed up the healing process and relieve inflammation.
Fresh maple sap has a strengthening effect because it contains a whole complex useful substances and vitamins. If you mix the juice with warm milk in equal proportions, you can cure a cough.
Sweet maple juice can be taken during pregnancy to quench thirst, lift your mood and strengthen the immune system, one third of a glass three times a day, but it is still better to consult your doctor first.
Maple honey
Norway maple is an excellent honey plant that produces aromatic, high-quality and tasty amber-colored honey. Maple honey (as well as many other varieties of this healthy product) contains almost all the biochemical compounds necessary to maintain excellent health, including amino acids, vitamins and microelements.
Action of maple honey
1. Increases immunity.2. Prevents the development of anemia and atherosclerosis.
3. Invigorates and tones the body.
4. Calms the nervous system.
5. Increases lactation.
6. Fights viruses and infections.
7. Promotes wound healing.
Norway maple honey is perfectly balanced in composition, therefore it is indicated not only as a therapeutic, but also as a prophylactic agent that helps maintain normal body functions.
For preventive purposes, maple honey is taken one tablespoon 30 minutes before consuming food, for ten days, after which a 10-day break is indicated, after which honey intake is resumed.
Treatment of abscesses
A “dough” is prepared from equal amounts of honey and flour (to obtain a homogeneous mass, a small amount of water should be added to this “dough”). The resulting mass is applied daily to the sore spot until the abscess opens.2 tbsp. The mixture is placed in a thermos and 500 ml of boiling water is poured in, after which the mixture is infused for an hour and filtered. An infusion is taken, to which a teaspoon of maple honey is added, half a glass three times a day, half an hour before meals.
The healing properties of maple honey are used in the treatment of diseases of the genitourinary system in both men and women.
Contraindications
No contraindications to taking Norway maple preparations were identified (with the exception of individual intolerance). However, pregnant women should be careful with this plant, which contains alkaloids that increase contractions of the smooth muscles of the uterus. Therefore, before consuming decoctions or infusions of Norway maple, you should definitely visit a doctor.Norway maple recipes
Infusion for kidney stones
Grind 100 g of dry or fresh maple leaves and pour a liter of boiling water, leaving the product to infuse overnight. The strained infusion is taken for two to three months before meals, 150 ml, three times a day. This natural remedy will help, firstly, remove sand from the kidneys, and secondly, dissolve small stones. The important thing is that with the help of the infusion, the sand will come off quite easily, since maple preparations have an analgesic effect.Infusion at reduced potency
1 tbsp. pour maple fruits with one glass of hot water and leave in a hermetically sealed enamel container (preferably in a water bath) for half an hour. Then the infusion is cooled at room temperature 40 minutes, filtered and brought with boiled water to its original volume. This remedy is taken 2 tbsp. about 4 – 5 times a day, 25 minutes before meals.Infusion for colds
A tablespoon of crushed Norway maple bark is poured into a glass of boiling water and infused in a water bath for about an hour, after which the infusion is filtered and drunk 50 ml, four times a day. This recipe will help reduce the intensity of renal colic, and will also contribute to faster healing of kidney and bladder diseases.This infusion, which has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, is recommended for washing purulent and long-healing wounds.
