Acer oliverianum d.w. (Oliver Maple)

Acer oliverianum d.w. (Oliver Maple)  is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree that is native to East Asia, particularly China and Korea. It is valued for its ornamental qualities and is often cultivated for its attractive foliage and overall aesthetic appeal. 

The Oliver Maple typically reaches a height of 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters) at maturity, forming a rounded or spreading crown. The tree has a slow to moderate growth rate and develops a well-branched structure. Its bark is grayish-brown and relatively smooth. 

One of the distinctive features of Acer oliverianum is its foliage. The leaves are palmate, meaning they have multiple lobes radiating from a central point, resembling the shape of a hand. The leaves are deeply divided into five to nine lobes, each lobe having a serrated or toothed edge. The leaf color is typically green during the growing season, turning vibrant shades of orange, red, or purple in the fall. The autumn foliage display of Oliver Maple is highly prized and adds to its overall appeal. 

In terms of its habitat preferences, Acer oliverianum thrives in moist, well-drained soils. It prefers partial shade to full sun exposure, although it can tolerate some shade. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types and is moderately drought-tolerant once established. 

As an ornamental tree, Acer oliverianum is often planted in gardens, parks, and other landscape settings. It is particularly appreciated for its vibrant fall colors and its ability to bring visual interest to the landscape. The tree's smaller size makes it suitable for smaller gardens or areas where space is limited. 

Overall, Acer oliverianum (Oliver Maple) is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its attractive foliage and vibrant fall colors, which make it a popular choice for landscaping and gardening.