chalk maple

Plant Type

Large Tree (greater than 25 ft)

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

25 ft. tall

Tolerant of

Drought

Inolerant of

Poorly Drained Soil

Propagation

By seed

Plant Propagation Notes

Harvest seed from trees when the samaras turn dark brown. Cold moist stratify for 2-3 months.

Plants/Diseases

No significant disease or pest issues.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Host plant for butterfly larvae

Leaves

Leaves opposite, simple with lobed margins. Lobes with acuminate tips. Smaller than the similar sugar maple.

Flowers

Greenish yellow with prominent anthers.

Fruit

Samara.

Bark

Smooth chalky white. Turns blackish and forms ridges at tree base with age.

Toxicity

No known toxicity.

USDA Hardiness Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Light Exposure

Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade, Full Shade

Soil Moisture

Medium

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Calcareous bluffs and slopes.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Rare in the coastal plain, sandhills, and mountains. Common in the piedmont.