Intensely coloured and beautifully shaped foliage make Acer palmatum a firm favourite. Commonly known as Japanese Maple trees, they also boast a graceful shape, whether they're weeping, dwarf or more spreading forms. We offer over 40 varieties of both popular and rare Japanese Maple varieties so there is plenty of choice....
Choosing Japanese Maple Trees
Japanese Maples are deciduous small trees renowned for their varied and changing colourful foliage. Some varieties have particularly dramatic seasonal transformations, with Acer palmatum 'Osakazuki' being a favourite for morphing from green in spring and summer to bright scarlet in autumn. The amount of sunlight needed varies between cultivators, with red and purple leaved Japanese Maples coping with the most sunlight and even requiring some to fully develop their dark hues. On the other hand, variegated Japanese Maples need partial shade to prevent the afternoon sun from scorching the foliage.
Many are slow growing, making them popular in smaller gardens or planted in large containers as a feature. We also stock a great choice of Dwarf Japanese Maple trees which will fit in practically any space. Amongst the smallest varieties are Acer palmatum 'Red Pygmy', Acer palmatum dissectum 'Garnet' and Acer palmatum Dissectum Viridis.
Growing Japanese Maple Trees
Although tolerant of all soils, a well-drained soil and sheltered position is preferred by Japanese Maple trees as their pretty foliage is very sensitive to sun and wind. For the best foliage colour, plant Japanese Maples using ericaceous compost and water them using rain water instead of tap water when possible. Japanese Maples have an attractive domed or spreading natural shape and so require very little pruning. Any pruning should be carried out in the dormant season as Japanese Maples bleed during other times of the year.
History of Acer palmatum
Acer palmatum are from the Sapindaceae family. They are native to Japan, North and South Korea, China, Eastern Mongolia, and Southeast Russia. The Latin name, Acer palmatum, comes from the word palmatum (palm), referring to the hand-like shape of the leaves as noticed by Swedish doctor and botanist Carl Peter Thunberg in the 18th century.
Japanese Maple trees have been cultivated in Japan for centuries, using varieties found in Japan, Korea and China and it is now thought that over a 1000 cultivators have been produced. In Japanese culture, Japanese Maple trees are said to signify great blessings, and any place in which they are planted is recognised as a peaceful retreat. The way the foliage of Japanese Maples change throughout the seasons is considered to be very beautiful in Japan, and people will gather round these trees to look at them collectively. This festival is known as momijigan, which means "leaf peeping".
The first Acer palmatum reached England in 1820 and today they are extremely popular in ornamental gardens throughout the UK. Their ornamental value isn't limited to gardens, with Acer palmatum making a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts throughout the world. Bonsai is an art of growing miniature trees that evolved in Japan, although also has roots in China where it is known as Penjing.
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BRINGING LIFE TO GARDENS SINCE 2004
Why Ornamental Trees?
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Based in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside, we have over 20 years of experience and have grown into one of the UK's leading online tree and plant suppliers.
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From small urban spaces and patios to large country estates, our extensive range of over 900 plant varieties ensures there’s a perfect match for every garden.
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Our plants are expertly grown and maintained to ensure they thrive for years to come once they find their permanent homes. We'll never send out a plant we're not entirely happy with!
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Advice From Our Experts
10 min read
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How to Plant a Pot-Grown Tree
This step-by-step guide covers how to correctly a plant pot-grown tree (a tree supplied in a pot or container) into the ground, including how to install a single stake &...
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How to Plant a Bare Root Tree
This step-by-step guide covers how to correctly plant a bare root tree into the ground, including how to install a single stake & tie. This guide is aimed specifically at...
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How to Plant a Mature Tree
This step-by-step guide walks through how to plant a mature tree, including how to correctly install a Large or Extra Large Stake & Tie Kit (two stakes and a crossbar)....
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How to Water Trees & Shrubs Correctly
A good watering regime is essential for young trees and shrubs to establish properly. This guide will walk you through how long to water a new tree or shrub for,...
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10 min read
Video
How to Prune Ornamental Trees Correctly
This step-by-step guide walks through how (and when) to prune ornamental trees correctly. You can watch a video version of this guide below. Pruning helps to keep trees healthy, promote...