Acer Palmatum Dissectum
Contents
Description
Acer Palmatum Dissectum, commonly known as the Japanese Maple, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Japan, Korea, and China. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its unique appearance, delicate leaves, and vibrant colors. The leaves of Acer Palmatum Dissectum are deeply lobed and dissected, giving them a feathery appearance. They are typically green during the growing season, but turn into a brilliant red, orange, or yellow color in autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
Acer Palmatum Dissectum is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 10 feet tall and wide. It has a rounded, bushy form with a delicate branching structure. The leaves are deeply lobed and dissected, giving them a feathery appearance. They are typically 2-5 inches long and wide, and their color ranges from green to red, orange, or yellow in autumn. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown, and the twigs are slender and greenish-red.
Care Guide
Water: Acer Palmatum Dissectum prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water it regularly during the growing season to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins.
Soil: Acer Palmatum Dissectum prefers slightly acidic, well-draining soil. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Acer Palmatum Dissectum prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade, but its leaves may not develop their full color potential in shade.
Hardiness Zones: Acer Palmatum Dissectum is hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acer Palmatum Dissectum is generally a healthy plant, but it is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases.
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Japanese Beetles: These beetles can cause significant damage to the leaves and should be controlled with insecticides.
- Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease can cause wilting, yellowing, and death of branches. Affected branches should be pruned and disposed of, and the plant should be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Acer Palmatum Dissectum is native to Japan, Korea, and China, where it grows in wooded areas and along forest edges. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Acer Palmatum Dissectum?
A: Water it regularly during the growing season to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the best soil for Acer Palmatum Dissectum?
A: Acer Palmatum Dissectum prefers slightly acidic, well-draining soil. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage.
Q: Can Acer Palmatum Dissectum tolerate full shade?
A: Yes, it can tolerate full shade, but its leaves may not develop their full color potential in shade.
Q: How tall can Acer Palmatum Dissectum grow?
A: Acer Palmatum Dissectum can reach up to 10 feet tall and wide.
Related Plants
- Acer Palmatum
- Acer Japonicum
- Acer Shirasawanum
- Acer Rubrum
- Acer Saccharum
References
- “Acer palmatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 17 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l740>.
- “Japanese Maple.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 17 May 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/9050/acer-palmatum-dissectum/details>.
- “Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum).” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 17 May 2021. <https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/st176>.
