Acer tataricum, commonly known as Tatarian Maple or Tatar Maple, is a deciduous small tree native to southeastern Europe and western Asia, valued for its ornamental red fall colors and fragrant white spring flowers. Seeds possess double dormancy requiring both warm and cold stratification periods to overcome embryo dormancy. Germination can be slow and erratic, requiring patience and careful environmental management.
Before sowing
Seeds exhibit double dormancy requiring both warm and cold stratification. Warm stratification (20°C) for 60 days followed by cold stratification (1-8°C) for 90-120 days is recommended.
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Soak seeds in room temperature water for 24 hours before stratification. Use a moist, well-draining substrate (soilless mixture mixed with vermiculite or perlite). Apply warm stratification at 20°C for 60 days, then cold stratification at 3-5°C for 90-120 days. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, tamp the soil lightly, and mulch the seed bed. Keep substrate moist but not waterlogged during stratification. Germination is slow and may take several months; do not discard seeds if they appear dormant. Some seeds may germinate during warm period, so check regularly. Once seedlings emerge, gradually increase ventilation to prevent damping off.
Sources: PFAF Plant Database, Mount Royal Seeds, RP Seeds, Sheffield's Seed Company, Temperate Plants Database
