Contents
Description
Acer Palmatum Ornatum is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Aceraceae family. It is native to Japan and Korea, and is commonly known as the ‘Korean Maple’. It has a slow growth rate and can reach a height of up to 20 feet with a spread of 15 feet. This ornamental plant is known for its beautiful foliage, which changes color throughout the year. In spring, its leaves emerge as bright green with reddish edges. As the summer progresses, the leaves turn a deeper green, and in fall, they turn a vivid orange-red.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
Acer Palmatum Ornatum has a unique appearance that makes it a popular ornamental plant. It has a bushy growth habit, and its leaves are palm-shaped with five or seven pointed lobes. The leaves are around 3-5 inches long and wide. Its bark is smooth and grayish-brown, and it has small, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in spring. Its fruits are winged samaras that are around 1 inch long.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Acer Palmatum Ornatum thrives, you need to provide it with the right care. Here’s what you need to know:
Water
This plant needs consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water it deeply once a week, and make sure the soil is well-draining.
Fertilization
Fertilize your Acer Palmatum Ornatum in spring before new growth appears. Use a balanced fertilizer, and follow the instructions on the package.
Soil
This plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil. You can add organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve the soil’s fertility.
Sunlight
Acer Palmatum Ornatum prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it will benefit from afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acer Palmatum Ornatum is generally disease-resistant, but it can sometimes fall prey to pests like aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and free of debris. In case of infestations, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Habitat
Acer Palmatum Ornatum is native to Japan and Korea, where it grows in woodlands and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Acer Palmatum Ornatum?
A: Water your plant deeply once a week, and make sure the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does Acer Palmatum Ornatum prefer sun or shade?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it will benefit from afternoon shade.
Q: What kind of soil does Acer Palmatum Ornatum prefer?
A: This plant prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil. You can add organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve the soil’s fertility.
Q: Is Acer Palmatum Ornatum susceptible to any diseases?
A: This plant is generally disease-resistant, but it can sometimes fall prey to pests like aphids, spider mites, and scale insects.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:
- Acer Palmatum ‘Bloodgood’
- Acer Palmatum ‘Sango Kaku’
- Acer Palmatum ‘Emperor I’
- Acer Palmatum ‘Orange Dream’
References
- “Acer Palmatum Ornatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 16 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277254.
- “Korean Maple.” The Spruce. Accessed 16 June 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/korean-maple-growing-profile-3269457.
- “Acer Palmatum Ornatum – Korean Maple.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed 16 June 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/acer-palmatum-ornatum.
