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Cornell University

Species: Acer palmatum

(ay'ser pal-may'tum)

Acer palmatum

Japanese Maple

Found on Course Walks

Maples, Beeches and Others

Map of plant locations

(Plant location data may be incomplete)

In Collection(s):

None Listed

Cultivars

This is a species with more than 200 cultivars, the following are a selection of the more readily available varieties.

'Atropurpureum', 'Bloodgood', 'Burgundy Lace', 'Butterfly', 'Crimson Queen', 'Dissectum', 'Katsura', 'Osakazuki', 'Sango-kaku', 'Seiryu'

Ornamental Characteristics

Tree < 30 feet

15' - 25' (equal or greater spread)

Deciduous

single stem tree or multi-stem shrub; round to broad-rounded; branches often form architectural layered effect

ideal site is dappled shade; young foliage susceptible to drying in full sun and strong wind; plant in protected site

Environmental Characteristics

Full sun, Part shade, Shade

5b

Can tolerate acid to neutral soil (pH 5.0 to 7.4)

handsome palmate medium green foliage turns red in autumn; foliage color varies in cultivars

Consistently moist, well-drained soil; Occasional periods of dry soil
See graphic below

Insect Disease

relatively trouble-free; needs little maintenance; possible botrytis and canker problems

Bare Root Transplanting


Other

Native to Japan

Moisture Tolerance Graphic

Please view this page on a tablet or larger screen for the moisture graph

Moisture Tolerance

Moisture graphic
Occasionally saturated or very wet soil
Consistently moist, well-drained soil
Occasional periods of dry soil
Prolonged periods of dry soil
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