Acer palmatum
The Japanese maples (Acer palmatum) are small, deciduous trees grown for their graceful habit, autumn colour and beautiful foliage which may be coloured or deeply dissected. Many acers grow extremely slowly and are perfect in a smaller garden, grown in large containers.
The preffered soil for this tree is slightly acidic, sandy, well-drained loam with a good amount of organic matter. Avoid wet, dry, alkaline soils, because it will not grow porperly.
About this plant
Maple Acer
Maples (Acer) form a large genus of trees and shrubs, nearly all from the northern hemisphere and many from China. They range from small multi-stemmed trees to large shade trees. Their opposite, usually lobed leaves, colourful young growth, winged fruits and above all their fiery autumn colours make them garden classics.
Japanese maple Acer palmatum
The Japanese maple, native to Japan, Korea and eastern China, is a slow-growing large shrub or small tree with a broad, rounded crown. The palmate leaves have five to nine pointed, toothed lobes and turn orange-red to scarlet in autumn. Hundreds of garden forms exist, differing in habit, leaf shape and colour.
Location and soil
Prefers a sheltered spot in partial shade, out of cold, drying winds; sun is tolerated if the soil stays moist. Needs humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil, ideally acidic to neutral. Hardy in Belgium, but heat and drought can scorch the leaves.
Pruning and care
Needs little pruning: if necessary, lightly balance the crown in winter (December to February). Mulch, water during dry spells and work in organic matter every few years. Watch for scale insects and verticillium wilt.
Use in the garden
A classic specimen for a lawn, a shade garden or a border with rhododendrons, azaleas, pieris and heathers. Many forms grow well in pots on a terrace, and the species is a favourite for bonsai.
Characteristics
Botanical
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Acer |
| Species | palmatum |
Foliage
| Evergreen | no |
| Colour (foliage) | green |
| Autumn colour | red, violet |
Growth habit
| Height | 300 cm |
Location
| Winter hardiness | -25 °C |
| Soil type | acid |
| Location | sun, half shade |
| Wind resistant | sheltered |
| Soil moisture | normal |
Use
| Type (use) | tree/standard, solitary |
Care
| Pruning | no |