Acer palmatum

Aceraceae

Japanese Maple

Small to medium deciduous tree, 3m to 10m tall; vase-shaped habit; small, fine, 5-lobed leaves; insignificant pink flowers in spring. Grown primarily for its very attractive autumn foliage and its pleasing shape. The species originates from Japan. There are many different cultivars.

Uses

Very attractive specimen tree for small gardens. Often used in Oriental theme gardens. Leaves dropped in autumn make excellent compost.

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Culture

Prefers a cool climate and fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Very cold and frost tolerant. Needs protection from warm, dry wind and hot afternoon sun - leaves are prone to scorching. Does not tolerate hot, humid climates. Mulch and feed annually. Water during dry periods. Regular pruning is not needed - only prune to shape or to remove dead wood.

Propagation

Grafting, soft wood cuttings (especially for cultivars) and seed.

Cultivars

Many cultivars available including:

'Bloodgood': possibly the best known and most popular cultivar - stunning deep red to purple leaves turning bright red in autumn. 2.5 -4m by 2.5 by 4m.

A. p. var. dissectum: deeply divided leaves.

A. p. var. dissectum 'Atropurpureum': deeply divided purple, stunning. foliage often used (grafted) as a standard tree.

'Garnet': Shrubby plant 1.5m tall by 2.5m spread at 10 years - beautiful purple, heavily dissected foliage.

Plant Health

Usually tough trees but may be prone to: Anthracnose, Septoria Leaf Spots, Powdery Mildew, Verticillium Wilt and Scorch.

More info

Video: ‘Identifying Trees and Shrubs’ produced by Australian Correspondence Schools is available through http://www.acsgarden.com/shop/ Landscape Design and Home Garden Expert courses are available through Australian Correspondence Schools, see www.acs.edu.au/hort

Acer palmatum

Aceraceae

Japanese Maple

Uses

Culture

Propagation

Cultivars

Plant Health

More info

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