Acer campestre ‘Elsrijk’

Tree Information

Specialities

Tolerances

Wet Soil: Medium

Dry Soil: Medium

Lime: High

Acer campestre ‘Elsrijk’ is a standout cultivar of the native Field Maple, widely appreciated for its compact, upright form and excellent tolerance of urban conditions. Developed in the Netherlands in the mid-20th century, ‘Elsrijk’ remains a preferred choice for street and avenue planting across Europe.

This cultivar was first selected by Dutch landscape architect Chris P. Broerse, who was searching for resilient trees suitable for marshy soils and public green spaces in Amstelveen. In 1937, Broerse identified two promising specimens growing in the Elsrijk district. After years of observation and cultivation, the final Acer campestre ‘Elsrijk’ selection was made in 1953. Its refined structure, pollution resistance, and drought tolerance have since made it a go to species in built environments.

In terms of appearance, ‘Elsrijk’ features smaller than average Field Maple leaves that emerge fresh green with red-tinged edges in spring. These mature into a deep mid-green over summer before transforming into rich butterscotch yellow and orange tones in autumn providing standout seasonal interest.

Ideal for urban landscapes, Acer campestre ‘Elsrijk’ performs well under restricted rooting conditions, close to paving, and in areas affected by air pollution. Its narrow, upright crown makes it particularly suitable for lining streets, car parks, and formal avenues.

For UK projects that require a similar form and hardiness, consider Acer campestre ‘Streetwise’ , a compact, uniform cultivar grown and refined by Hillier Trees.

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Size

Medium

10m high x 5m wide after 25 years

Environment

An ideal choice for compact, urban environments, where space and conditions can be challenging. This robust tree is well-suited to thrive in difficult settings, such as areas with paving, high levels of pollution, and drought. Its resilience and adaptability make it an excellent candidate for street planting, offering a green, attractive addition to cityscapes while withstanding the rigours of urban life.

Canopy

A medium sized tree with a dense and closed crown, creating a compact canopy. This tightly-knit structure makes it an excellent choice for urban settings where space is limited, providing a full, leafy cover that offers shade and visual appeal.

Foliage

Leaves are slightly smaller than those of the species, and in spring, the tree revels vibrant green, three-lobed leaves with subtle hints of red. As summer approaches, these leaves deepen into a rich, dark green, providing a lush, verdant canopy. By autumn, the foliage undergoes a stunning transformation, turning a classic golden butterscotch, adding a warm and vibrant touch to the landscape.

Resilience

A remarkably resilient tree. It thrives in a variety of soil types and can effectively withstand soil compaction, making it ideal for urban settings where conditions are less than ideal. This hardy tree also shows strong resistance to pollution, further enhancing its suitability for street planting. Additionally, 'Elsrijk' boasts a high resistance to mildew, ensuring it remains healthy and vibrant.

Available As:

Semi-Mature

FAQs

What is the appearance of the canopy of Acer campestre 'Elsrijk'?

The canopy of ‘Elsrijk’ is narrow and upright with a dense, conical form. While it may resemble a typical Acer campestre, it distinguishes itself with a compact, oval crown.

How does Acer campestre 'Elsrijk' handle urban conditions?

‘Acer campestre ‘Elsrijk’ is well-suited for urban environments due to its adaptability to paved surfaces, soil compaction, and pollution. It is also resilient to drought, making it a reliable choice for street planting and other challenging conditions.

How should I care for Acer campestre 'Elsrijk'?

Regular care for ‘Elsrijk’ includes watering during prolonged dry periods, especially when newly planted. Regular pruning is crucial to maintain the tree’s shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.