The Japanese Maple ( Acer palmatum atropurpureum ) is one of the most well known trees in the world. This deciduous species truly is a spectacular ornamental tree. With its stunning red foliage in spring, it is a real showstopper. Although the Japanese have been blessed with having this beautiful tree named after their country, it is actually a native to China, Russia, Mongolia and Korea as well. Another common name for the Acer palmatum is the Palmate Maple.
Growth
The Acer palmatum grows to an average height and width of 6-10 metres and the canopy is dome shaped. The leaves are palmate and start out bright green in spring but turn orange and then a deep red in Autumn. The leaves range in size depending on maturity from 3-12 cm’s and drop in winter while the tree is dormant.
Japanese Maples grow naturally as an understory plant, so prefer a partly shaded location. They are native to cooler climates so do not tolerate very hot afternoon sun and winds well, this can cause leaf burn. While young it is best to protect them from strong winds. They are most suited for cool & temperate climates, however, are successfully grown in both sub-tropical and hot, dry areas as long as they get plenty of shade and water during warmer times of the year.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Sapindaceae
CLIMATE:
Cool, Temperate, Sub-tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
-28°C to 40°C / -20 to 104°F
SOIL TYPE:
Soil must be well draining.
LOCATION:
Part Shade – Full Sun, dependent on location
HEIGHT:
Up to 10 metres (32 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 10 metres (32 feet)
pH:
5.0-6.5
GROWTH TYPE:
Deciduous
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Medium
POLLINATION:
Wind or Insect Pollinated. Monoecious, so has both male and female flowers on the same plant. Self-Fertile
MATURITY:
10-15 years
GERMINATION RATES:
83%
GERMINATION TIME:
12 weeks Cold Stratification, post sowing 3-4 weeks.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Medium
SEEDS PER GRAM:
25
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
No
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
EDIBLE:
Yes, leaves.
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) for 1-2 years.
FACTS ABOUT ACER PALMATUM ATROPURPUREUM (Japanese Red Maple)
The Japanese Maple has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
Japanese Maples have been grown by bonsai enthusiasts for centuries and is among one of the most popular choices.