Acer lobelii

Tree Information

Specialities

Tolerances

Wet Soil: Medium

Dry Soil: High

Lime: Medium

Acer lobelii, commonly known as Lobel’s Maple, is a rare and distinctive tree prized for its naturally fastigiate, narrow, and vase-shaped canopy. Native to select pocket areas of Southern Italy, this maple is believed to be a natural hybrid between Acer cappadocicum and Acer platanoides, though it is widely accepted as a distinct species due to its unique characteristics. In the UK, Acer lobelii thrives well in nursery conditions and establishes easily in urban landscapes.

One of the key features of Acer lobelii is its slender, upright growth habit, which makes it an excellent choice for planting in confined spaces such as narrow pedestrian walkways, tight central reservations, and urban streetscapes. Its canopy broadens slightly toward the top, giving it an elegant vase shape that offers both architectural interest and functional shade. This form also allows it to withstand challenging conditions such as hard surfacing and the high winds commonly found near tunnels or tall infrastructure.

Acer lobelii is an ideal option for creating striking avenues, rows along driveways, or parkland planting where space is limited but visual impact is essential. Its resilience and adaptability to urban environments make it a valuable addition to sustainable city planning.

For those interested in related species, check out our detailed profiles on the Acer cappadocicum ‘Rubrum’ and Acer platanoides. To learn more about tree planting in urban environments, visit Hillier’s Urban Tree Planting Guide.

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Size

Medium

8m high x 2.5m wide after 25 years

Environment

An ideal choice for narrow, tighter, urban locations, such as streets, where space is limited. Its slender, upright form allows it to fit seamlessly into constrained spaces without overwhelming surroundings. This unique growth habit also makes it a striking feature in parks and landscaped area, where its elegant silhouette and distinctive foliage can create a visually stunning focal point.

Canopy

One of the very few trees that naturally grows in a fastigiate form, characterised by its slender, upright canopy. The trees distinctive growth habit features tightly clustered, vertical branches that extend upwards, allowing the crown to reach an impressive height of up to 25m. This elegant columnar shape makes Acer lobelii an exceptional choice for vertical space in urban and landscaped environments.

Foliage

The foliage features distinctive 5-pointed leaves that are a lush, shiny green throughout the growing season. As autumn arrives, these vibrant leaves transition into softer, warm shades of yellow, creating a pleasing and gentle display of seasonal colour. The rich green foliage, combined with its gradual autumn transformation, adds both texture and visual interest to the landscape,.

Resilience

This tree exhibits notable resilience, thriving best in soils with a lower to medium pH, but struggling in higher alkaline conditions. Its adaptability allows it to establish well even in challenging environments, including hard surfaces and highly exposed sites.

FAQs

How tall does Acer lobelii grow?

Acer lobelii typically reaches a height of 8m with a spread of 2.5m after 25 years, making it an excellent choice for narrow spaces or where vertical growth is desired.

How do I care for Acer lobelii?

Acer lobelii requires regular watering to aid in establishment, especially during dry periods. Pruning is generally not necessary, but light pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches.

How fast does Acer lobelii grow?

This tree has a moderate growth rate, gaining around 1-2ft per year under optimal conditions.