Acer Nipponicum

Description

Acer Nipponicum, also known as Nippon Maple, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan. It belongs to the family Sapindaceae, and is a popular ornamental plant due to its stunning foliage and delicate flowers. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and wide, and has a moderate growth rate. Its leaves turn from bright green to yellow or red in the fall, adding a pop of color to any garden.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Angiospermae
Order	Sapindales
Family	Sapindaceae
Genus	Acer

Appearance

Acer Nipponicum has a multi-stemmed growth habit and produces small, fragrant, white or pink flowers in the spring. Its leaves are simple, opposite, and palmately lobed, measuring 3-5 inches long and wide. The leaves are bright green in the summer, turning yellow or red in the fall. The shrub’s bark is smooth and gray, adding texture to its appearance.

Care Guide

Water: Acer Nipponicum requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid over-watering as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring using a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer.Soil: Acer Nipponicum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels.Sunlight: The plant requires full to partial sun exposure. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in poor growth.Hardiness Zones: Acer Nipponicum grows best in USDA hardiness zones 5-7.

Common Pests & Diseases

Acer Nipponicum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if over-watered, or powdery mildew if the air is too humid.

Habitat

Acer Nipponicum is native to Japan, where it grows in mountainous regions and along stream banks. It prefers cool, moist climates and can tolerate cold winters.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Acer Nipponicum be grown in containers?A: Yes, Acer Nipponicum can be grown in containers. However, make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: Is Acer Nipponicum deer-resistant?A: Yes, Acer Nipponicum is deer-resistant. Its bitter-tasting leaves and bark make it unappealing to deer.Q: When is the best time to prune Acer Nipponicum?A: Prune Acer Nipponicum in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. This will help stimulate new growth and maintain the plant’s shape.Q: Does Acer Nipponicum produce fruit?A: Yes, Acer Nipponicum produces winged samaras that are 1-2 inches long. These samaras are often called “helicopters” due to their spinning motion as they fall from the tree.

Related Plants

• Acer Palmatum
• Acer Shirasawanum
• Acer Japonicum
• Acer Griseum

References

• “Acer Nipponicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a570.
• “Acer Nipponicum.” Plant Finder. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2229/nippon-maple/.
• “Acer Nipponicum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13975/Acer-nipponicum/Details.