Contents
Description
Acer Palmatum Beni, also known as Japanese Maple, is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It is a popular plant in landscaping due to its stunning foliage that changes color throughout the year. In spring, the leaves emerge red or purple, turn green in the summer, and then turn bright red or orange in the autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
Acer Palmatum Beni can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide, but it can also be pruned to a smaller size. Its leaves are five-lobed and can reach up to 4 inches long. The bark is smooth and gray when young, but it becomes rough and fissured with age. In the autumn, the leaves turn bright red or orange, providing a stunning display of color.
Care Guide
Acer Palmatum Beni requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in acidic or neutral soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can also grow in full sun. Protect it from strong winds.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acer Palmatum Beni is susceptible to some pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and turn yellow.
- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and dropping of leaves.
- Verticillium wilt: This fungal disease can cause wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause white powdery spots on the leaves.
Habitat
Acer Palmatum Beni is native to Japan, Korea, and China, where it grows in forests and on hillsides. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Acer Palmatum Beni grow in full sun?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in full sun, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: What is the best time to prune Acer Palmatum Beni?
A: The best time to prune the plant is in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears.
Q: How often should I fertilize Acer Palmatum Beni?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Acer Palmatum Beni grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers, but make sure the container is large enough and the soil is well-drained.
Related Plants
- Acer Palmatum
- Acer Palmatum Dissectum
- Acer Japonicum
- Acer Shirasawanum
References
- “Acer palmatum ‘Beni’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=249644&isprofile=0&basic=Acer%20palmatum.
- “Acer palmatum ‘Beni’ (Beni Japanese Maple).” Gardenia. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/acer-palmatum-beni-beni-japanese-maple.
- “Japanese Maple.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.almanac.com/plant/japanese-maple.
