Uses: The Japanese Maple is a popular small tree for areas that are a little cooler and wetter.
The dissected (cut leaf/lace leaf) forms are more vulnerable to harsh conditions and are best suited for small protected gardens and courtyards where growing conditions can be managed. Japanese maples have a thin skin rather than bark and are susceptible to sun burn and need protection from afternoon sun..They are not suited for exposed planting on the plains or close to the sea where hot winds are prevalent.
In the correct environment they are spectacular trees, with autumn colour ranging from bronze, orange-scarlet and yellow. Many have lovely red and lime green tinges in the bark and fine branches which are an added affect during the winter months. Several cultivars are available including:
Acer palmatum 'Bonfire'
Acer palmatum 'Butterfly'
Acer palmatum 'Dissectum Seiryu'
Acer palmatum 'Osakazuki'
Acer palmatum 'Sango Kaku'
Acer palmatum 'Shishigashira' .