Japanese maples are the HTA’s ‘Plant of the Moment’ for April.
A good choice of tree for a compact or courtyard garden, they will brighten a shaded corner or elegantly overhang a pool or water feature.
|Although many are commonly called Japanese maples, their parents could be derived from several different species including Acer japonicum, Acer palmatum, Acer shirasawanum or others. Among them are some extremely slow-growing forms, with trees remaining a small, manageable size without the need for regular pruning. Their natural shape and growing habit make them an ideal choice growing in large patio pots.
Leaf shapes, sizes and colours vary immensely. Many have a broad palm shape, often divided and dissected into the most delicate and intricate forms. Colours range from deep greens to yellow, gold, purple or even variegated patterns.
Japanese maples start to put on a show as soon as foliage unfurls in spring and continue until their autumn transformation into shades of gold and bronze before leaf fall.
Top varieties include
- Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’
- Acer palmatum ‘Osakazuki’
- Acer palmatum ‘Sango-Kaku’
- Golden Shirasawanum maple (Acer shirasawanum ‘Aureum’) (pictured)
Top tips to pass on at the information desk
1. Choose a sheltered site where trees are protected from late spring frosts, cold winds and scorching summer sun.
2. Maples prefer well-drained soil containing plenty of compost to lock in moisture and ensure the ground never dries out.
3. Spread a deep mulch of leaf-mould, compost or shredded bark over the soil around maples to retain moisture and reduce annual weed growth.
Japanese maples should not be smothered by neighbouring plants, so always give them space to flourish. Planting partners for an oriental look include ferns, hostas, bamboo, azaleas and camellias.
