Contents
Description
Acer Shirasawanum Moonrise, also known as the Full Moon Maple, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Aceraceae family. It is native to Japan and is popular for its stunning foliage and unique growth habit. The tree typically grows up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, with a rounded canopy and multiple stems. The leaves of the Acer Shirasawanum Moonrise start off a bright orange-red color in the spring, gradually turn green during the summer, and finally turn yellow-gold in the fall. The bark is light gray and smooth, and the flowers are small and insignificant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Aceraceae |
| Genus | Acer |
Appearance
The Acer Shirasawanum Moonrise is a stunning tree that is popular for its unique foliage. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a palmate shape, with five to nine pointed lobes. The leaves start off a bright orange-red color in the spring, gradually turn green during the summer, and finally turn yellow-gold in the fall. The bark of the tree is light gray and smooth, and the flowers are small and insignificant. The tree typically grows up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, with a rounded canopy and multiple stems.
Care Guide
The Acer Shirasawanum Moonrise is a relatively low-maintenance tree that requires moderate care. Here are some tips on how to care for this tree:
Water
The tree requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of its life. Water the tree deeply once a week, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and not over-fertilize, as this can damage the tree.
Soil
The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy, consider adding compost or sand to improve drainage.
Sunlight
The tree prefers partial shade to full sun. If planting in a hot, sunny location, make sure to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones
The tree is hardy to USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Acer Shirasawanum Moonrise is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can still be susceptible to some issues. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
Pests
Some common pests that can affect the tree include aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Diseases
Some common diseases that can affect the tree include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and verticillium wilt. These diseases can be prevented by planting the tree in well-draining soil and providing good air circulation.
Habitat
The Acer Shirasawanum Moonrise is native to Japan and is commonly found in mountainous areas. The tree prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Acer Shirasawanum Moonrise be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the root system and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Can the Acer Shirasawanum Moonrise be pruned?
A: Yes, the tree can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. Prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can the Acer Shirasawanum Moonrise be grown in hot, dry climates?
A: It is not recommended to grow the tree in hot, dry climates as it prefers partial shade and moderate moisture.
Q: Is the Acer Shirasawanum Moonrise deer-resistant?
A: The tree is relatively deer-resistant, but deer may still browse on the foliage if food is scarce.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Acer Shirasawanum Moonrise:
- Acer palmatum
- Acer japonicum
- Acer griseum
- Acer campestre
- Acer rubrum
References
- “Acer shirasawanum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=258436&isprofile=0&basic=acer%20shirasawanum. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Full Moon Japanese Maple.” Monrovia, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1757/full-moon-japanese-maple/. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Acer Shirasawanum ‘Moonrise’.” Plant Database, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/203400/. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
