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INTRODUCTION
Japanese Maples have been cultivated in Japan from the late 1500s.
Their popularity increased and led them to being cultivated in many other parts of
the world over the last 150 years or so.
The definitionof a Japanese Maple tree is not easy because there are
several systems of classification in existence at the moment.
Indeed, the currently favoured classification system devised by P.
C. de Jong identifies only three subspecies of acer palmatum. This site
concentrates on acers which can be bought in nurseries and garden
centres. Generally, the horticultural trade names them Acer palmatum
and Acer japonicum.
SPELLING
Another common problem with identifying a particular Japanese Maple
is that many of them are English interpretations of the original
Japanese name. Unfortunately several Japanese sounds are not
represented in the English alphabet and more than one spelling
exists. This difficulty is slowly being eradicated however as plant
naming conventions are increasingly becoming standardised world
wide.
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SEASONS OF INTEREST
From early October through to late November many Japanese
Maples are transformed in a blaze of red and orange leaves.
This occurs at a time when most other ornamental plants and
trees have long passed their best.
This is a spectacular show but from April
to September Japanese Maples also delight with their overall
form and the colours, textures and shapes of leaves. So
consider what your tree will look like in the six months
prior to October to gain the full benefit from these
spectacular trees. |
Acer palmatum Katja leaf |
SIZE AND FORM
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Japanese Maples are unusual as a group of
trees in that they span a huge varieties of sizes. Left
un-pruned the acer palmatum can easily grow to 12m / 40ft
high.
At the same time, the dwarf varieties, such as Koto Maru
will never exceed 1.5m / 5ft in height. Combine this with a
variety of habits, from weeping to upright, and it is clear
the choice is huge with many varieties suitable for all
types and sizes of garden. |
WHICH MAPLE TREE FOR YOUR GARDEN?
Probably the best place to start selecting a Japanese Maple tree for
your garden is in our picture gallery. This shows pictures of a
large number of Japanese maples with brief details. Click on any
picture for lots more details about that particular Japanese Maple. |
