Shade is preferred, but it will adapt to sunny sites with supplemental irrigation. Acid, well-drained soils are preferred. Old plants can be pruned back close to ground level to rejuvenate them. Trident maple was introduced from China in 1890 and has been in the nursery trade for many years. However, due to short supply, its merits have not been fully appreciated.
Trident maple is an excellent small shade tree for the landscape or city street tree planting.
It is particularly attractive when grown as a multi-trunk tree next to a patio. It grows well in full sun or partial shade and is adapted to a wide variety of soil types. The bark takes on a mottled orange-gray appearance with age and is a striking feature, particularly in the winter landscape. Fall brings a collage of leaf colors, ranging from red to orange and yellow. Also tolerant of wind, salt and air pollution.