Japanese Maples

About

Choosing Japanese Maple Trees Japanese Maples are deciduous small trees renowned for their varied and changing colourful foliage. Some varieties have particularly dramatic seasonal transformations, with Acer palmatum 'Osakazuki' being a favourite for morphing from green in spring and summer to bright scarlet in autumn. The amount of sunlight needed varies between cultivators, with red and purple leaved Japanese Maples coping with the most sunlight and even requiring some to fully develop their dark hues. On the other hand, variegated Japanese Maples need partial shade to prevent the afternoon sun from scorching the foliage. Many are slow growing, making them popular in smaller gardens or planted in large containers as a feature. We also stock a great choice of Dwarf Japanese Maple trees which will fit in practically any space. Amongst the smallest varieties are Acer palmatum 'Red Pygmy', Acer palmatum dissectum 'Garnet' and Acer palmatum Dissectum Viridis. Growing Japanese Maple Trees Although tolerant of all soils, a well-drained soil and sheltered position is preferred by Japanese Maple trees as their pretty foliage is very sensitive to sun and wind. For the best foliage colour, plant Japanese Maples using ericaceous compost and water them using rain water instead of tap water when possible. Japanese Maples have an attractive domed or spreading natural shape and so require very little pruning. Any pruning should be carried out in the dormant season as Japanese Maples bleed during other times of the year. History of Acer palmatum Acer palmatum are from the Sapindaceae family. They are native to Japan, North and South Korea, China, Eastern Mongolia, and Southeast Russia. The Latin name, Acer palmatum, comes from the word palmatum (palm), referring to the hand-like shape of the leaves as noticed by Swedish doctor and botanist Carl Peter Thunberg in the 18th century. Japanese Maple trees have been cultivated in Japan for centuries, using varieties found in Japan, Kore