Field Maple (also known as Hedge Maple)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Sapindales, Family: Sapindaceae, Genus: Acer, Species: Acer campestre · Sapindaceae (Soapberry / Maple family) · Simple, Deciduous
Species
Acer campestre
Leaf Type
Simple, Deciduous
Family
Sapindaceae (Soapberry / Maple family)
Shape
Palmately lobed with 3 to 5 rounded lobes separated by broad sinuses
Size
Approximately 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long and wide, which is typical for this small-leaved maple species
Margin
Entire to slightly wavy along the rounded lobes
Arrangement
Opposite, along slender brownish twigs
Rarity
Very Common across Europe and widely cultivated elsewhere
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green on the upper surface, slightly paler beneath; turns a bright yellow to golden-brown in autumn; petioles often show a subtle reddish tint
Venation Pattern
Palmate venation with primary veins radiating from the leaf base into each major lobe
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) to slightly puberulent upper surface, soft texture; breaks with a milky sap visible in young petiole stems
Description
Field Maple is a sturdy, small to medium-sized deciduous tree or hedge shrub reaching 15-25 meters in height. It features dark green, 3-5 rounded-lobed leaves with smooth margins, distinctive opposite branching, and corky fissures on older twigs and bark. It produces yellowish-green Corymb flowers in spring followed by horizontally spread samaras (winged seeds).
Key Features
3-5 distinct rounded (not pointed) lobes; opposite leaf arrangement; small leaf size compared to other maples; presence of milky latex sap in petiole when broken fresh; horizontally spreading samara wings
Habitat
Deciduous woodlands, forest edges, hedgerows, scrublands, and urban parks; prefers well-drained, alkaline or calcareous soils in full sun to partial shade
Geographic Range
Native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa; widely planted as an ornamental or hedgerow tree in North America and temperate regions worldwide
Condition Notes
The leaves appear mature, healthy, and deep green with minimal physical tearing or insect damage. Overall health grade: Excellent.
Interesting Facts
It is the only native maple tree species in the United Kingdom. Its hard, dense wood was historically favoured for woodcarving, musical instruments, and turnery. The tree easily withstands heavy pruning, making it one of the few maples traditionally used for traditional hedge-making.
Medicinal & Uses
Historically used in traditional folk medicine for skin washes. Economically used for hedging, ornamental urban planting due to pollution tolerance, and fine woodworking/turnery.
Ecological Role
Provides vital habitat and food source for dozens of insect species, including caterpillars of various moths; seeds are consumed by small mammals and birds; flowers supply early spring nectar to bees.
Similar Species
Sycamore Maple (Acer pseudoplatanus) - has much larger leaves with pointed lobes; Norway Maple (Acer platanoides) - larger leaves with sharp points and larger samaras; Hedge Maple cultivars.
Foraging Tips
Look for small 3-5 rounded lobed leaves arranged in opposite pairs on slender twigs. Snapping a fresh petiole often reveals a tiny droplet of milky sap, a key field identifier.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans and common domestic animals (dogs, cats). However, wilted foliage of certain Acer species can be toxic to horses if ingested in large quantities.