Field Maple Bare Root Hedge | 120-150cm | Clay & Limestone

Field Maple (Acer campestre) 120-150cm bareroot hedging is a fast-growing, native UK species that thrives in clay and limestone soils, offers creamy yellow autumn foliage, and forms a dense, stock-proof barrier with minimal maintenance.

Key Features

• Height at delivery: 120-150cm bare root
• Annual growth rate: 30–60cm
• Soil tolerance: suitable for clay, limestone, loam, moist or well-draining soils
• Sunlight: full sun or partial shade
• Wildlife value: supports pollinators & birds
• Autumn colour: creamy yellow leaves
• Stock-proof with regular pruning

Use Cases

• Ideal for wildlife-friendly, low-maintenance hedges
• Effective barrier for livestock or property
• Good alternative to hawthorn or hornbeam for heavy soils

FAQs

• What is the best fast-growing hedge for clay or limestone soil? Field Maple hedging is highly tolerant of clay and limestone, with an annual growth of 30–60cm.
• How does Field Maple compare to hornbeam or beech for wildlife? As a UK native, Field Maple offers similar habitat and food sources for birds and insects.
• Are bare root Field Maple hedges suitable as a stock-proof barrier? Yes, when regularly pruned, they create dense, stock-proof borders.
• Which hedging plant gives strong autumn colour and needs little maintenance? Field Maple provides striking yellow foliage and requires minimal care.
• Can I plant Field Maple in partial shade and still get good growth? Yes, Field Maple grows well in partial shade, provided deep shade is avoided.

Planting and care

This is a bare-root plant, supplied dormant between November and March. Plant within a few days of arrival for best results, keeping the roots moist and out of direct sun until they go in the ground. Standard spacing is 3 plants per metre, or 5 per metre for a denser, faster screen.

Read our complete bare-root hedging buyer's guide for full instructions on when to plant, how to handle the plants on arrival, planting depth, spacing for different uses, and what to expect in the first season.