Acer Japonicum

Description

Acer Japonicum, also known as the full moon maple, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Sapindaceae. It is native to Japan and Korea and is widely grown as an ornamental plant in North America, Europe, and Asia. The tree can grow up to 20 feet tall and has a spread of about 15 feet. The leaves are palmately lobed, and the flowers are small and inconspicuous. The tree produces winged fruit called samaras that ripen in the fall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Acer Japonicum tree has a slow to moderate growth rate and is known for its striking foliage. The leaves are typically five to seven inches wide and divided into nine to thirteen lobes. The lobes are deeply cut and have a rounded shape, giving them the appearance of a full moon. In the spring, the leaves are a bright green color, but they turn to a deep burgundy in the fall. The tree’s bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color.

Care Guide

Acer Japonicum is a relatively low-maintenance tree, but it does require specific care to thrive. Here are some tips to help you care for your full moon maple:

Water: The tree requires consistent watering, especially during the first few years of growth. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall and winter.

Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall, as this can encourage new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.

Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.

Sunlight: Acer Japonicum prefers partial shade to full sun. The tree can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but may struggle in hot, dry areas.

Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in zones 5 through 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Acer Japonicum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by a few common issues:

Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be found on the undersides of leaves and can cause leaf curl and distortion. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease presents as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It can be treated with fungicides or by improving air circulation around the tree.

Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease causes wilting and yellowing of the leaves and can eventually kill the tree. There is no cure for the disease, but affected branches can be pruned to slow its spread.

Habitat

Acer Japonicum is native to Japan and Korea and can be found growing in mountainous regions and forests. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade to full sun.

Question and Answer

Q: How fast does Acer Japonicum grow?

A: Acer Japonicum is a slow to moderate growing tree, gaining about one to two feet in height per year.

Q: Can I grow Acer Japonicum in a container?

A: While it is possible to grow Acer Japonicum in a container, it may not reach its full size potential and will require careful attention to watering and fertilization.

Q: When is the best time to prune Acer Japonicum?

A: Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Avoid pruning in the fall, as this can encourage new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.

Q: How do I propagate Acer Japonicum?

A: Acer Japonicum can be propagated by taking hardwood cuttings in the winter or by grafting onto rootstock in the spring.

Related Plants

• Acer Palmatum
• Acer Shirasawanum
• Acer Griseum
• Acer Rubrum

References

• “Acer Japonicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h950.
• “Full Moon Maple (Acer Japonicum).” Garden Design Magazine, 28 June 2016, www.gardendesign.com/trees/full-moon-maple.html.
• “Acer Japonicum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/11722/Acer-japonicum/Details.