Japanese maple. Beautiful feature tree which changes with the seasons. Brilliant Autumn red/orange foliage colors followed by fresh new bright green leaves in Spring. Ornamental bark and stems. Fully hardy in sun or semi-shade.
DESCRIPTION: Elegant deciduous small tree with hand-shaped maple leaves, light green in spring and turning orangey-red shades in autumn.
USE IN: Plant as a feature or shade tree in the garden or a large pot. Site carefully to avoid having to prune to fit a too-small space.
LOCATION: Needs moist, rich, slightly acid soil in dappled or part shade. Acers will grow in full sun but leaves tend to scorch and the autumn color is reduced; avoid an exposed or windy site for the same reason. Extremely cold hardy.
CARE: Mulch when planting and provide regular water until the plant is established, usually around 12 weeks. Plants need more water in sunnier locations, especially if container-grown. Add slow-release fertilizer in spring, and mulch to keep roots cool. If you must prune, do this in winter, but plants have an elegant natural shape and shouldn't need it.
