Vine Maple Plant Care

Acer circinatum Pursh

Acer circinatum, or vine maple, is a species of maple native to northwestern North America. Vine maple typically grows as a low-elevation coastal tree in temperate areas of high precipitation such as the west coast of Oregon and northern California, as well as the temperate rainforests of Washington and British Columbia.

🌳Trees🌿Shrubs
Water

Every 7–14 days

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Temp

0–100°F

Humidity

40–70%

What Is the Vine Maple?

Vine Maple (Acer circinatum) belongs to the Sapindaceae family within the Acer genus. Vine Maple is native to northwestern North America. Vine Maple is also known as Oregon Vine Maple.

Vine Maple displays an upright, spreading tree growth habit, reaching up to 30 inches tall with a spread of approximately 25 inches. Vine Maple produces small inconspicuous flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Vine Maple?

Acer circinatum requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 7–14 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the Vine Maple Need?

Vine Maple thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–800 lux. Avoid placing Vine Maple in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Full sun to partial shade

200–800 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Vine Maple Prefer?

Acer circinatum grows best at temperatures between 0°F and 100°F. Vine Maple prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Temperature

0–100°F

Humidity

40–70%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Vine Maple?

Rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Vine Maple to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Repot a Vine Maple?

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

How Do You Propagate a Vine Maple?

Vine Maple can be propagated through seeds, softwood cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to japanese maple plant care, which shares the same genus.

Fertilizing

Every 8 months

During the growing season

Is the Vine Maple Toxic to Pets and Children?

Non-Toxic

Non-toxic to humans and pets

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Vine Maple?

Vine Maple is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, caterpillars. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Vine Maple Need?

Vine Maple grows outdoors in USDA Zone 5a – 9b. Native to northwestern North America, Vine Maple is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Vine Maple as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 5a – 9b

Keep exploring plants

Vine Maple is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Acer genus — compare its care with other Acer species on PlantoScan.

Vine Maple tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.

More Acer Species

Other Acer species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:

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