Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum

Dendrologist Dan's spring stunners: awesome Acers

Posted: April 1, 2014 at 15:37 pm Author: Dan Crowley

There is so much to excite here at Westonbirt just now - far too much to mention them all here so I have chosen to highlight just a few of the Acer species along Broad drive, which are perhaps more subtle in their flowering beauty.

As many of you know, the Acer genus is one of our National Collections and certainly not just for autumn!

Two European species which are looking fantastic just now are Acer hyrcanum, the balkan maple and Acer opalus, the Italian maple.

Acer hyrcanumAcer opalus

These photos were taken of specimens growing along Broad Drive and are worth close inspection! The former grows in a prominent position opposite the propped Prunus sargentii, Sargent's cherry , while the latter is set back, behind the iA. hyrcanum - don't miss it!

Slightly further along towards Waste Drive is Acer morifolium and although the flowers aren't quite out, the flushing foliage is looking awesome!

Acer morifolium

There is plenty more worth seeking out as well - come and see for yourselves!!