Acer palmatum – A Lush, Graceful Tree with Fiery Autumn Foliage
Acer palmatum, commonly known as Japanese Maple, is a captivating deciduous tree that brings unparalleled beauty and sophistication to any garden or landscape. With its delicate, finely textured leaves and vibrant seasonal transitions, this tree is prized for its ornamental value throughout the year. Acer palmatum is particularly renowned for its spectacular autumn foliage, where its leaves turn shades of fiery red, orange, and yellow, creating a breathtaking display that draws attention. Its graceful, often multi-stemmed structure and compact growth habit make it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, patios, or as a specimen tree in larger landscapes.
Why Grow Acer palmatum?
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Stunning Seasonal Colour – From spring through autumn, Acer palmatum delights with an array of vibrant foliage colours. In spring, its leaves unfurl in soft shades of green, transforming into brilliant reds and golds as autumn approaches.
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Graceful Form – Known for its elegant, cascading branches and finely serrated leaves, this tree adds sophistication and softness to any garden design. Its compact, rounded shape is ideal for smaller spaces, making it perfect for urban gardens or as a focal point in larger ones.
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Year-Round Interest – Acer palmatum offers visual interest beyond just its autumn colours. Its refined form, delicate foliage, and beautiful bark provide a striking presence in the garden throughout all seasons, even during the winter months.
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Low Maintenance – Though strikingly beautiful, this tree is relatively low maintenance once established. It thrives with minimal care and is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a hassle-free ornamental tree.
Planting & Care Guide
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Position: Acer palmatum thrives in partial to full shade, particularly in warmer climates. It can tolerate some sun, but too much direct exposure can scorch its leaves. Plant in a sheltered area, protected from strong winds, to prevent damage to its delicate branches.
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Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. It does best in slightly acidic to neutral soil and will benefit from consistent moisture, particularly in dry periods.
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Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as Japanese Maples are sensitive to root rot. A deep watering once or twice a week is often sufficient, depending on weather conditions.
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Maintenance:
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Pruning: Prune lightly in early spring to remove any dead or damaged wood. If you desire a more sculpted form, prune selectively to maintain the tree's graceful habit.
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Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and keep the root zone cool, particularly during hot summer months.
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Winter Protection: In regions with harsh winters, protect the tree’s bark from winter sun and wind by wrapping it in burlap or using a tree guard.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Acer palmatum pairs beautifully with a wide variety of plants that enhance its natural elegance. In a garden with other shade-loving plants, it complements hostas, ferns, and astilbes, where their lush green foliage contrasts beautifully with the tree’s vibrant colours. For a more dramatic effect, pair it with flowering shrubs like azaleas or rhododendrons, where the tree’s delicate structure creates a soft backdrop for their bold blooms. For an Asian-inspired garden, combine it with bamboo or stone lanterns for a serene, tranquil aesthetic. Its upright form also makes it an excellent companion for groundcovers like creeping thyme or moss, creating a natural, textured look.
Whether used as a striking focal point, a graceful accent, or a timeless backdrop, Acer palmatum is sure to bring beauty and refinement to your garden, season after season.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
