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Acer palmatum
Family: Aceraceae
Genus: Acer
Species: palmatum
Common names: Japanese Maple
why we love Acer palmatum
Acer palmatum, commonly known as Japanese Maples, are easily recognised by their fine architecture and distinctive fingery leaves. Acer palmatum is possibly the best known of the Japanese maples. Naturally green, many cultivated forms have been produced to give us red leaves, striking bark and fancy shaped foliage.
Acer palmatum is a star performer amongst small trees. In autumn the branches hang with the winged seeds before the leaves turn in magnificent shades of yellow, orange and red depending upon the variety of Japanese maple that you have. We love the way the leaves carpet the ground in beautiful architectural shapes.
Where to place Acer palmatum
Like many of the smaller maples Acer palmatum likes a little shelter away from strong winds which strip the moisture from the delicate leaves. Reaching an ultimate size of around 6m this medium sized spreading or rounded tree is a fine choice for a small or medium sized town garden.
Alternatively grow Acer palmatum as an understory to larger trees in a woodland garden, provided enough dappled light filters down to reach it.
Acer palmatum is happiest in a moderately fertile, moist yet well drained soil with plenty of organic matter incorporated. Think moist deciduous woodland and you'll have the perfect environment in mind.
similar plants to consider
Acer palmatum comes in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colours from the shrub-like Acer palmatum var. dissectum with its heavily cut leaves to Acer palmatum 'Sango-kaku' featuring delicate pale green leaves and rich coral pink bark.
Acer palmatum at a glance
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