TreesAcer palmatum
Japanese Maple
The Japanese maple is a graceful tree or large shrub with deeply lobed, palmate leaves that turn spectacular shades of red, orange, or gold in autumn. Its elegant growth habit makes it a focal point in any garden. Hundreds of cultivars exist, from compact and rounded to broad and spreading.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 200–800 cm
- Spread
- 200–600 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 5–8
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- red
- Wildlife value
- birds, insects
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant preferably in light partial shade, sheltered from cold east winds and fierce afternoon sun. Japanese maples thrive in moisture-retentive, slightly acidic soil with good drainage. Water regularly during dry periods, as the delicate leaves scorch easily. Feed in spring with a slow-release organic fertilizer.
Pruning tips
Prune as little as possible — the natural form is this tree's greatest asset. In late winter, remove only dead wood and crossing branches. Never prune in spring when the sap is rising, as the tree bleeds heavily.
Good companions
FernsPolystichum setiferum
Soft Shield Fern
The soft shield fern is an elegant, evergreen fern with finely divided, soft green fronds that arch gracefully outwards. The plant forms a beautiful rosette and fits perfectly in shady borders and woodland gardens. Mature specimens can reach up to 120 centimetres across.
Ground coverAjuga reptans
Bugleweed
Bugleweed is a robust ground cover that spreads rapidly through runners. From April to June, dense spikes of blue-purple flowers rise above the dark green, glossy foliage. The plant is evergreen and forms a continuous carpet within a single growing season.
ClimbersClematis montana
Mountain Clematis
Mountain clematis is a fast-growing climber that becomes smothered in white or pink flowers during May and June. The plant can cover large surfaces in a short time, making it ideal for growing over pergolas, fences, and unsightly walls. The lightly fragrant blooms appear on the previous year's wood.