Maple trees have several identifying features. Read about the different forms the buds, bark, leaves, flowers, and seeds can take in Chapter 1. The accompanying illustrations will help you learn to identify these trees even in the winter.
The distribution and type of habitats maple trees prefer is discussed in Chapter 2. It was interesting to learn that these trees are totally absent south of the equator with the exception of a single species. I am grateful that the author mentions temperatures when discussing the geographical regions where Maples are found.
Chapter 3 discusses the discovery of Maples throughout the northern hemisphere. Here you will find the tales of plant hunters leaving their homelands and suffering many hardships to bring new plants or trees back to their native land. This exploration continues even today as the political climate changes, opening new areas to exploration.
Harris outlines the several taxonomies proposed for Maples in Chapter 4. He points out the differences between the different classification schemes. Although I enjoy knowing the exact name for each plant or tree in my yard, I’ve given up trying to keep up with all the name changes, preferring to leave this to the experts to debate. I’ve learned one thing in my career as a gardener and garden writer: Don’t get upset over name changes! As botanists continue to study differences and similarities between plants, it is inevitable that names change. Chapter 5 presents the A-Z listing of Maple species. Each description provides a description of the tree, type of soil it grows best in, where it originated, and when it was introduced into cultivation. Unfortunately, it would be difficult for the average person to identify a tree from the descriptions here. The photographs are not conducive to identifying specific species.
In my opinion, the next three chapters should be rearranged. Chapter 6 discusses the details of cultivating maples successfully while Chapter 8 talks about using Maples in gardens and landscapes. These subjects should have been combined. You need to consider things such as soil ph, soil type, and light levels regardless of how you use the tree in the garden or landscape. The tips on planting Maples, including staking new trees, will be handy. I was pleased to see a discussion of growing Maples in containers for the small garden. They are also popular as bonsai.
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