Acer shirasawanum Moonrise
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.
Fullmoon Maple Acer shirasawanum
Acer shirasawanum, the full moon maple, is a small, slow-growing tree or shrub from Japan. It is recognised by its almost round leaves with many shallow, toothed lobes, which colour gold, orange and red in autumn. In spring, small purple-red flowers hang in clusters on long stalks, followed by winged fruits.
Location and soil
Plant in partial shade, sheltered from cold, drying winds and from the hottest afternoon sun, which scorches the leaves. It prefers cool summers and a fertile, moist, loose and well-drained soil, preferably acid. It is fully hardy in winter but suffers in heat and drought.
Pruning and care
Mulch the roots, water during dry spells and mist the foliage on hot evenings. Pruning is hardly necessary: in winter, from December to February, simply balance the crown. Watch for scale insects and verticillium wilt, and avoid waterlogged soil.
Use in the garden
Ideal as a specimen on a shady lawn or with acid-loving plants such as azaleas, rhododendrons, pieris and heathers. Thanks to its slow growth and spreading crown it also suits small gardens, large containers and bonsai.
Characteristics
Botanical
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Acer |
| Species | shirasawanum |
| Cultivar | 'Munn 001' |
| Trade name | Moonrise (PBR) |