Acer palmatum
Common name: Japanese maple
Acer palmatum is a popular member of many gardens. This shrub or small tree is known for its beautiful foliage, graceful branching structure, and spectacular colour. A. palmatum belongs to the soapberry family (Sapindaceae), and is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It has been cultivated in Japan for centuries, and is said to signify great blessings. In temperate parts of the world, it has been in cultivation since the 1800s. A. palmatum prefers moist yet well-drained soil which is slightly acidic, and contains organic matter. It has a compact, fibrous root system. It can be grown successfully in containers, and can be trained as a bonsai.
Acer palmatum leaves are palmately lobed with between five to seven points. In fall the leaves turn to shades of golden-yellow, red-purple, or bronze before shedding. The flowers are produced in cymes. These flowers are followed by fruit which are pairs of winged samaras.
The specific epithet 'palmatum' was given by Swedish physician and botanist Carl Peter Thunberg who explored Japan in the late 18th century. It refers to the leaves which are shaped like a hand. VanDusen has several species trees and quite a few cultivars.
Text by Kumi Sutcliffe
Photos from Wikimedia: tree by AnRo0002; leaves by Kurt Stüber