Striped Maple 'Erythrocladum' (Acer pensylvanicum 'Erythrocladum'): Coral-Red Twigs for Winter Interest

'Erythrocladum' is a rare cultivar of striped maple (moosewood) selected for its brilliant coral-red young twigs that provide striking winter color. The species is a small understory tree native to eastern North American forests, known for its green-and-white striped bark and large, three-lobed leaves.

Botanical Profile

• Family: Sapindaceae (soapberry family)
• Genus: Acer
• Species: pensylvanicum
• Cultivar: 'Erythrocladum'

Features

New twigs are vivid coral-red, fading to green-striped with age. Leaves are large (5–7 inches), three-lobed, bright green, turning clear yellow in fall. Bark on older trunks develops vertical green and white stripes. Grows 15–25 feet tall with a broad, rounded crown. Small, yellow-green flowers in pendulous racemes in spring; paired samaras.

Culture

Part to full shade (essential), moist, cool, well-drained, acidic soil. Hardy in USDA zones 3–7. Intolerant of heat, drought, and full sun. Mulch heavily to keep roots cool. Prune minimally.

Uses

Woodland garden, shade garden, winter interest specimen, native plant collection. The red twigs glow against snow.