Japanese Maple Tree - Acer palmatum
- Hardiness Zones: 5-8
- Habit: Deciduous
- Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
- Site Requirements: Light dappled shade; evenly moist, well drained
soil; protect from drying winds
- Texture: Medium to fine
- Form: Low; dense rounded top; spreading branches; assumes a layered
look
- Height: 15 to 25'
- Width: 10 to 25'
- Leaf: 2 to 5" opposite, simple leaf with 5 to 9 lobes; green
during summer; yellow, bronze, purple to red fall color
- Flower/Fruit: Small red to purple flowers; attractive if viewed
closely but insignificant from a distance
- Other: Can be grown as single or multi-stemmed small tree; may suffer
leaf scorch with excess sun, wind, or drought
The Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) includes an incredibly diverse and beautiful
variety of over 300 cultivars. The leaves vary in shape from the stereotypical
Maple leaf, to very intricate lacey designs. The colors of the foliage range
from light green to a deep burgundy. The growth habit may be anywhere from a
low growing, dwarf weeping variety to a 20 foot tall shade tree. Although Japanese
maples look as though they would be delicate, they are hardy and durable trees,
seldom damaged by insect pests or by air pollutants. These characteristics
make the Japanese Maple ideal for landscaping and home gardens.
Images:
http://www.msue.msu.edu/msue/imp/mod03/01700013.html
Source:
http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/trees-new/acer_palmatum.html