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Description
Acer Palmatum Taylor, also known as Taylor’s Japanese Maple, is a beautiful deciduous tree that is native to Japan. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its stunning foliage and unique growth habit. The leaves of Acer Palmatum Taylor are deeply lobed and have a distinctive red-purple color that turns bright red in the fall. The tree can grow up to 12 feet tall and wide, making it an excellent choice for small gardens or container planting.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
The leaves of Acer Palmatum Taylor are deeply lobed and have a distinctive red-purple color that turns bright red in the fall. The tree can grow up to 12 feet tall and wide, making it an excellent choice for small gardens or container planting. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray, and the branches are slender and arching. Acer Palmatum Taylor produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spring that are followed by winged fruits.
Care Guide
Acer Palmatum Taylor is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful tree:
Water
Water Acer Palmatum Taylor regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Make sure the soil is evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the leaves to wilt and drop.
Fertilization
Fertilize Acer Palmatum Taylor in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and do not over-fertilize, as this can damage the tree.
Soil
Acer Palmatum Taylor prefers well-drained, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy and clay-like, amend it with compost or peat moss to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight
Acer Palmatum Taylor prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it may benefit from some protection from the afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones
Acer Palmatum Taylor is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acer Palmatum Taylor is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be susceptible to the following:
Aphids
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause the leaves of Acer Palmatum Taylor to curl and yellow. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Verticillium Wilt
Verticillium wilt is a fungal disease that can cause the leaves of Acer Palmatum Taylor to wilt and turn yellow. The disease is spread by infected soil, so it is important to plant Acer Palmatum Taylor in well-drained, healthy soil.
Habitat
Acer Palmatum Taylor is native to Japan, where it grows in woodland areas and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to prune Acer Palmatum Taylor?
A: The best time to prune Acer Palmatum Taylor is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Q: Can Acer Palmatum Taylor be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Acer Palmatum Taylor can be grown in a container. Choose a large container with good drainage, and use a high-quality potting mix.
Q: How often should Acer Palmatum Taylor be fertilized?
A: Acer Palmatum Taylor should be fertilized once a year, in spring, with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: How much sunlight does Acer Palmatum Taylor need?
A: Acer Palmatum Taylor prefers partial shade to full sun.
Related Plants
- Acer Palmatum
- Acer Palmatum Atropurpureum
- Acer Palmatum Beni Kawa
- Acer Palmatum Bloodgood
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press.
- Gardiner, J. (2006). Maple Trees. Timber Press.
- Harris, R. W., & Clark, J. R. (1991). The vascular flora of the Cedar Creek Natural History Area, northeastern Minnesota. Bulletin of the Torrey Botanical Club, 118(1), 23-29.
