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Description
Acer Palmatum Chitoseyama, also known as Japanese maple tree, is a deciduous tree that is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It belongs to the Aceraceae family and is one of the most popular ornamental trees in the world. This tree is prized for its stunning autumn foliage and delicate, lacy leaves that are red in color during the spring season. The Acer Palmatum Chitoseyama grows up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, making it an ideal choice for small gardens or as a potted plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
The Acer Palmatum Chitoseyama is a small, slow-growing tree with a compact, spreading habit. Its leaves are deeply lobed and have serrated edges that are red in color during the spring season. During the summer season, the leaves turn green and then change to orange, red, or purple in the fall. The tree produces small, red flowers in the spring, followed by winged fruits that are called samaras. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray, with small fissures that appear as the tree ages.
Care Guide
To keep your Acer Palmatum Chitoseyama healthy and happy, you should follow these care guidelines:
Water
The tree requires regular watering, especially during the first few years after planting. You should water the tree deeply once a week, making sure to soak the soil around the roots.
Fertilization
You should fertilize the tree in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the tree.
Soil
The tree prefers well-draining, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. You should avoid planting the tree in heavy clay soils or soils that are too alkaline.
Sunlight
The tree prefers partial shade to full sun, although it can tolerate some shade. You should avoid planting the tree in areas that receive full afternoon sun, as this can cause the leaves to scorch.
Hardiness Zones
The tree is hardy in USDA zones 5-8, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Acer Palmatum Chitoseyama is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, although it can be affected by:
Aphids
These small insects feed on the leaves and can cause them to curl and deform. You can control aphids by spraying the tree with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.
Verticillium Wilt
This fungal disease can cause the leaves to wilt and die. There is no cure for verticillium wilt, so you should remove and destroy infected trees to prevent the disease from spreading.
Habitat
The Acer Palmatum Chitoseyama is native to Japan, Korea, and China, where it grows in forests and along riverbanks. The tree prefers cool, moist climates and can tolerate some shade. It is commonly used in Japanese gardens and as a specimen tree in small gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Acer Palmatum Chitoseyama be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container as long as it is kept well-watered and fertilized. You should choose a container that is at least 12 inches wide and 12 inches deep, and use a high-quality potting mix.
Q: When should I prune my Acer Palmatum Chitoseyama?
A: You should prune the tree in late winter or early spring, before the new growth appears. You can remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.
Q: How can I propagate my Acer Palmatum Chitoseyama?
A: You can propagate the tree by taking softwood cuttings in the early summer or by grafting onto rootstock in the winter.
Q: How can I protect my Acer Palmatum Chitoseyama from frost damage?
A: You can protect the tree from frost damage by wrapping it in burlap or frost cloth, or by applying a thick layer of mulch around the base of the tree.
Related Plants
Other related plants to Acer Palmatum Chitoseyama include:
- Acer Palmatum Atropurpureum
- Acer Palmatum Bloodgood
- Acer Palmatum Dissectum
- Acer Palmatum Osakazuki
References
- “Acer palmatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279932&isprofile=0&basic=Acer%20palmatum.
- “Japanese Maple.” The Tree Center. Accessed June 10, 2021. https://www.thetreecenter.com/japanese-maple/.
- “Acer Palmatum Chitoseyama.” Plant Finder. Accessed June 10, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1441/chitose-yama-japanese-maple/.
