Serving the Kansas City Metro for over 25 Years
Public Plant Profile

Trident Maple

Acer buergerianum

Category: Deciduous Tree • Maple

Discover the Trident Maple, a versatile shade tree with stunning fall colors and unique bark.

Mature Height: 20-35 feet
Mature Width: 20-30 feet
Light: Sun
Zone: Zones 5-8
Maintenance: Moderate
Growth Rate: Moderate
Season of Interest: Fall
Foliage: Deciduous
Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

The Trident Maple is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree known for its attractive three-lobed leaves and vibrant fall color. It is often used in landscaping and bonsai due to its manageable size and beautiful form.

Ideal Conditions

Thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It tolerates a range of moisture levels.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil is ideal, with moderate moisture. It adapts to various pH levels.

Sun Needs

Sun

Watering Needs

Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to establish strong roots.

Pruning Notes

Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove dead wood.

Fertilizing Notes

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

Common Issues

May face issues with aphids, scale, and leaf spot diseases.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenshade tree

Special Features

Attractive fall colorunique bark texture

Wildlife Value

Provides habitat for birds and insects.

Resistance / Tolerance

Moderate drought tolerance

Notes from Our Designer

Great for urban settings due to its tolerance of pollution. Provides excellent shade.

Related Plants

See How Similar Plants Are Used in Real Landscapes

Explore related plants, compare shape, texture, and overall planting style, and get a better feel for what may fit your own outdoor space.

Use this page to get a feel for where Trident Maple may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

★★★★★

“We did a complete overhaul of our landscaping after moving into our new home. We removed bushes, a tree, several plants and built 2 retaining walls. Bold Outdoors spent a lot of time talking with us about what we wanted…”

Natalie K.

★★★★★

“Bold Outdoors has provided the highest quality professional landscape design, installation and after installation services at my residence since April, 2014. Josh Graber, the owner of the company, listened to input from…”

Brad S.

Is Trident Maple a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

Browse more plants or reach out and we will help you choose the right combination for your space.