Attached are some pictures of a grafted plant now about 20 years old that was bought as Acer elegantalum. I received seedlings of Acer elegantalum from another source about 12 months ago which were quite different, but similar to published pictures of Acer elegantalum. As it turns out I think my original tree was in fact Acer pubinerve, also known as Acer wuyuanense or the "Chocolate Maple" because of the colour of emerging leaves. According to Flora of China (2008), "Acer elegantulum is characterized by its velutinous ovary and nearly glabrous abaxial veins and petiole. Acer pubinerve differs by its velutinous abaxial veins and petiole. These two taxa are difficult to distinguish and possibly can be combined." Also shown are the abaxial leaves from both demonstrating the difference as well as some of the "chocolate" coloured leaves that can occur at times other than early in the season. The greatest pity is that the name Acer pubinerve has precedence rather than the much more attractive name Acer wuyuanense.
I think the name Chocolate maple makes this a winner before even seen, but when you do see it, then those deep dark brown/ green leaves make it rather special and especially if you have the room to let fulfil it's true potential. What plans do you have for these D?
I'm planning on planting whatever lives out on the property somewhere D. Watch them grow and be beautiful.
Acer pubinerve I think the name changed to Acer wuyuanense? Here is an update on the little ones. I have repotted (more like slipped) them into bigger pots. If these survive this winter I'm sure they will take off next year.
I know D. I think some may be hybrids. We will see. Once I get this grafting thing down. I'll see if I can get a scion or two from the direct tree.
I believe Simon Grant's statement still holds true. At least according to Flora of China and the Maple Society's list of accepted species names. I did wonder the same when I saw the picture earlier today. Seed from an arboretum by any chance? They look great in any case and hope you get some nice trees out of them.