Contents
Description
The Acer Palmatum Crimson Queen, also known as Japanese Maple, is a deciduous tree that is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It is a popular ornamental tree due to its striking foliage that turns from crimson red in spring to deep purple-red in summer and then to bright red in autumn. This tree is usually grown for its foliage instead of its flowers, which are small and inconspicuous.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
The Acer Palmatum Crimson Queen grows up to 10-15 feet tall and 8-12 feet wide. Its leaves are deeply lobed and palm-shaped, measuring 2-5 inches long and wide. They emerge in spring as a bright crimson-red color and mature to a deep purple-red color in summer. In autumn, the leaves turn to a bright red color. The bark of this tree is smooth and gray when young, but it becomes rough and fissured as it ages. The tree produces small and inconspicuous flowers in spring.
Care Guide
Water
Water the Acer Palmatum Crimson Queen regularly, especially during the summer months, to keep the soil moist. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and foliage color.
Soil
The Acer Palmatum Crimson Queen prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid planting it in heavy or clay soils.
Sunlight
This tree prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can also tolerate full shade.
Hardiness Zones
The Acer Palmatum Crimson Queen is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Acer Palmatum Crimson Queen is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. It can also be prone to fungal diseases such as verticillium wilt and leaf spot.
Habitat
The Acer Palmatum Crimson Queen is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It grows in mountainous regions and can be found in mixed deciduous forests.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I prune my Acer Palmatum Crimson Queen?
A: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring, before the new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. Also, thin out the interior of the tree to improve air circulation.
Q: Can I grow the Acer Palmatum Crimson Queen in a container?
A: Yes, this tree can be grown in a container, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization than if it were planted in the ground.
Q: How fast does the Acer Palmatum Crimson Queen grow?
A: This tree grows at a slow to moderate rate, typically reaching its full height in 10 to 20 years.
Q: Can the Acer Palmatum Crimson Queen be grown in full sun?
A: Yes, this tree can be grown in full sun, but it may require more frequent watering and protection from hot afternoon sun.
Related Plants
- Acer Palmatum Atropurpureum
- Acer Palmatum Dissectum
- Acer Palmatum Osakazuki
- Acer Palmatum Sango Kaku
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Dirr’s encyclopedia of trees and shrubs. Timber Press.
- Gardening Know How. (n.d.). Crimson Queen Japanese maple care: How to grow a Crimson Queen Japanese maple tree. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/japanese-maple/crimson-queen-japanese-maple.htm
- RHS. (n.d.). Acer palmatum ‘Crimson Queen’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/90395/Acer-palmatum-Crimson-Queen/Details
