Introduction to Japanese Maples

Welcome to the whimsical world of Japanese maples!

Konichiwa y’all, and welcome to the ten at ten for October first of twenty twenty four.

Join our delightful hosts, Matt and Kate, as they embark on a leafy adventure through the enchanting realm of Japanese maples. Today, we kick off with a special introduction to these stunning trees, setting the stage for a series of captivating explorations.

Move over, Princess Peach. We have a new Japanese princess in town, and she’s ready to steal the spotlight! Get ready to dive into the vibrant colors and unique varieties that make Japanese maples a gardener’s dream.

Stay tuned as we explore the Japanese Princess Maple and many more fascinating varieties in this series. Let the maple madness begin!

The Japanese Princess Maple

Move over, Princess Peach! There’s a new Japanese princess in town, and she’s not just a video game character. Meet the Japanese Princess Maple, a stunning pink dwarf variety that’s sure to steal the show in any garden.

“Japanese princess, an amazing plant with some cool colors, guys.”

Description

The Japanese Princess Maple is a delightful cultivar introduced by Tom McColts. It’s a pink dwarf that originates from Nakayatsu Busa, and it’s known for its vibrant color variations. This maple is a standout with its hot pink hues when given plenty of sunlight. In the shade, it takes on a more subdued, bleached blonde look with pink overtones.

Growth Habits and Color Variations

This maple is a bit of a slow grower, reaching about three feet in ten years. It’s perfect for container gardening and offers a bright red display in the fall. As it matures, it may even develop some unique cork bark characteristics.

Ideal Conditions for Vibrant Coloration

To achieve the best coloration, provide the Japanese Princess with ample sunlight. This will enhance its hot pink tones, making it a true showstopper in your garden.

Popularity and Ranking

The Japanese Princess Maple is highly regarded, even ranking number one in the top fifty Talon Buckholtz cultivar introductions. It’s a must-have for any maple enthusiast, but be quick—these plants tend to sell out fast!

“It’s probably one of the best overall Japanese maples ever.”

So, if you’re looking to add a touch of royalty to your garden, the Japanese Princess Maple is the way to go. Grab yours today before they’re all gone!

For more on Japanese maples, check out our Introduction to Japanese Maples or explore other varieties like the Aureum: The Golden Maple.

Aureum: The Golden Maple

Welcome to the world of the Aureum, a maple so golden it could make Midas jealous! This classic Japanese maple, discovered by the adventurous Seobold in Japan, is a true gem in the plant kingdom.

“It’s a really beautiful maple. Classic Japanese maple, found by Seobold in Japan.”

Seasonal Color Changes and Characteristics

The Aureum is not just a one-season wonder. In spring, it flaunts a vibrant green, only to transform into a stunning orange-red in the fall. Talk about a wardrobe change! This maple is the epitome of versatility, with its chartreuse color and seasonal variations.

Historical Background and Significance

Legend has it that Seobold, an optometrist with a penchant for sailing and plant hunting, brought this beauty from Japan to Holland. The original Acer Shirasawanum still stands proudly on the banks of Esveld Plantinium, a testament to its rich history. Imagine a 200-year-old Aureum, a living piece of maple history!

Tips for Optimal Growth and Placement

Thinking of adding this golden wonder to your garden? Start by placing it in a container to find the perfect spot. It thrives in shade, especially under a high oak canopy, and can develop a charming red border with a bit of morning sun. Just remember, late-day shade is your friend, especially in hotter climates.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a maple newbie, the Aureum is a must-have. Its durability and cold tolerance make it a reliable choice, and its vibrant colors are sure to make your garden the talk of the town. So, why not add a touch of gold to your collection?

Benikawa: The Coral Bark Maple

Welcome to the world of the Benikawa, the coral bark maple that’s as vibrant as a flamingo at a disco! This tree is not just a pretty face; it’s a showstopper all year round.

Overview of the Benikawa Maple

The Benikawa, or “red bark,” is a mid-sized Japanese maple that typically grows to about 10 to 12 feet, even after 15 years. It’s a bit smaller than the Sangokaku but larger than the Little Sango, making it the Goldilocks of coral bark maples.

“It’s a beautiful coral bark, and it has great winter interest, that bright red color.”

Unique Features and Seasonal Changes

This maple is famous for its stunning red bark, especially in winter when most other plants are looking a bit drab. In the fall, it flaunts a golden yellow with red splashes, making it the fashionista of the plant world. The bark may appear greener in the fall, but fear not, it’s just getting ready to dazzle you in the colder months.

Ideal Growing Conditions and Zones

Benikawa thrives in zones 6 through 9, basking in the sun like a lizard on a rock. It loves good drainage and can handle sandy soils, but keep it dry in the winter to maintain its vibrant color.

Comparison with Other Coral Bark Maples

While the Benikawa is a bit smaller than the Sangokaku, it holds its own with a pink-red bark that’s hard to beat. It’s heat tolerant and can handle a good bit of sun, making it a reliable choice for your garden.

For more on Japanese maples, check out our Introduction to Japanese Maples or explore the Japanese Princess Maple.

Higashiyama: The Umbrella Mountain Maple

Welcome to the world of the Higashiyama, a Japanese maple that’s as old as your grandpa’s jokes but way more colorful! This delightful tree, whose name translates to “umbrella mountain,” is a historical gem in the world of maples.

“It’s also a older species of Japanese maple, so another cool piece of history.”

Historical Significance and Name Origin

The Higashiyama has been around since the 1700s, making it a classic in the Japanese maple family. Its name, a combination of “Higase” (umbrella) and “Yamma” (mountain), hints at its unique growth habit and majestic presence.

Unique Growth Habits and Seasonal Colors

This maple is a showstopper with its curling leaves in spring, adorned with beautiful pink hues. It’s like a botanical fashion show every year! The tree tends to grow over a foot annually, making it one of the faster-growing Japanese maples. Its columnar shape adds a touch of elegance without taking up too much space.

Popularity in Bonsai and Traditional Gardens

In Japan, the Higashiyama is a favorite for bonsai, though it’s less common in the U.S. for this purpose. Its heat tolerance and vibrant colors make it a hardy yet stunning addition to any garden. Whether in full sun or partial shade, this maple holds its own, offering a “chew stopper” quality that makes it a must-have.

Higashiyama: The Umbrella Mountain Maple

For more on Japanese maples, check out our Introduction to Japanese Maples or explore the Japanese Princess Maple.

Ukigumo: The Floating Cloud Maple

Welcome to the whimsical world of the Ukigumo, or as we like to call it, the “Floating Cloud Maple.” This delightful tree is known for its spectacular white variegation that appears every two to three years, making it a standout in any garden.

“It has the name floating cloud, and it makes sense because every two to three years it has a really awesome white, variegation.”

Description of the Ukigumo Maple

The Ukigumo is a unique maple that can sometimes resemble a ghost series with its splatter effect. It’s like having a little piece of art in your backyard that changes with the seasons.

Variegation Patterns and Seasonal Changes

This maple isn’t consistent with its white coloring. Some years, it might surprise you with a bright white display, while other years, it might lean more towards green. But no matter the color, it’s always a bold presence in the landscape, especially with its vibrant orange fall color.

Care Tips for Optimal Color Display

To get the best out of your Ukigumo, consider these tips:

Shade is Key: Plant it under a high oak canopy to keep it cool and slow its leafing out process.
Low Nitrogen Fertilizers: Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers to prevent early dormancy breaking.
Protection from Sun: While it can handle some sun in the Pacific Northwest, most areas will benefit from a good bit of shade.

Popularity and Unique Characteristics

The Ukigumo is not just a pretty face; it has a unique claw-like habit to its leaves, adding to its charm. With about a foot of growth per year, it’s suitable for zones five through nine. And let’s not forget the element of surprise each spring, as you never know if you’ll be greeted by a glowing white spectacle.

So, if you’re looking for a maple that offers both beauty and a bit of mystery, the Ukigumo is your tree. It’s like having a little piece of floating cloud magic right in your garden!

For more on Japanese maples, check out our Introduction to Japanese Maples or explore the Ever Autumn: The Year-Round Fall Maple.

Ever Autumn: The Year-Round Fall Maple

Welcome to the whimsical world of the Ever Autumn maple, where fall colors are not just a season but a year-round spectacle! This delightful tree, a chance sport off an Amuriyama, is like having a perpetual autumn in your backyard.

Unique Leaf Coloration and Seasonal Appeal

The Ever Autumn maple is aptly named, as it showcases a unique blend of red hues cast onto its green leaves, giving it a perpetual fall appearance. As one enthusiast put it:

“It’s aptly named, like you said, because you get some weird autumn colors even in the summer.”

This maple is not just a seasonal delight; it’s a year-round showstopper with its serrated leaf shape reminiscent of the Amuriyama style.

Growth Habits and Care Recommendations

Standing tall and proud, the Ever Autumn can reach up to fourteen feet in height and ten feet in width, making it a stunning addition to any garden. It thrives in sunny spots and is particularly well-suited for southern climates, thanks to its Acer cerciatum x palmatum lineage, which adds durability.

Significance of Its Name and Origin

Discovered and named by Dan Hymes at Terra Nova Nurseries, the Ever Autumn maple is a testament to the beauty of chance discoveries in nature. Each tree is grafted from the original, ensuring that every Ever Autumn is a piece of maple history.

Join the celebration of fall at Mister Maple’s open house on October 26th, where you can witness the Ever Autumn in all its glory. It’s a day filled with fun, foliage, and a bit of maple magic!

For more on Japanese maples, check out our Introduction to Japanese Maples or explore the Japanese Princess Maple.

Kurinajishi: The Red Lion Maple

Welcome to the whimsical world of the Kurinajishi, also known as the Red Lion Maple! This delightful tree is a must-have for any maple enthusiast, thanks to its vibrant red scarlet hue in the spring.

“Its name is Red Lion, which makes a lot of sense because the new, spring growth always has that really red scarlet hue.”

Overview of Kurinajishi Maple

The Kurinajishi is a tree with a story. Named by the late, great Yamasan, it was brought to him by someone who discovered its unique charm. This maple is often compared to the mythological red shishigashira, fitting into various categories and collections.

Unique Features and Seasonal Changes

This tree is a visual treat throughout the year. In spring, it boasts deep reds, while in fall, it transforms into a blaze of oranges, reds, and yellows, reminiscent of a lion’s mane. Its curling foliage adds to its charm, making it a dynamic addition to any garden.

Ideal Growing Conditions and Zones

Kurinajishi is perfect for small spaces, typically reaching four to five feet tall in ten years. It’s excellent for container gardens and pairs beautifully with other maples like the Japanese Princess.

Comparison with Other Similar Maples

The Kurinajishi’s dense, bubbly foliage gives it a unique appearance, with elongated, serrated leaves that curl, echoing the shishigashira style. Its dark red spring color is a standout feature, though it may appear greener before the fall.

For more on Japanese maples, check out our Introduction to Japanese Maples and explore other varieties like the Japanese Princess Maple and Aureum: The Golden Maple.

Stay tuned for more exciting maple discoveries, and don’t forget to sign up for our email to learn about the secret ten trees dropping soon!

Take care, and happy gardening!

Arakawa: The Rough Bark Maple

Welcome to the world of the Arakawa, the maple with a bark so rough, it could exfoliate your garden! This unique tree is not just a plant; it’s a conversation starter, a piece of art, and a testament to nature’s creativity.

Arakawa: The Rough Bark Maple

Introduction to the Arakawa Maple

The Arakawa, also known as the Rough Bark Maple, is a stunning addition to any garden. Its bark is its most striking feature, resembling a rugged landscape that adds character and charm.

“It’s a beautiful maple with a unique bark texture, perfect for adding character to your garden.”

Unique Features and Bark Texture

The Arakawa’s bark is not just rough; it’s a masterpiece of texture. As the tree matures, the bark develops deep fissures and a rugged appearance, making it a standout feature in any landscape.

Ideal Growing Conditions and Zones

This maple thrives in zones 5 through 9, enjoying a mix of sun and shade. It’s heat tolerant, making it a great choice for various climates. Whether in a container or planted in the ground, the Arakawa is adaptable and resilient.

Comparison with Other Textured Bark Maples

While there are many maples with textured bark, the Arakawa stands out for its unique appearance and historical significance. It’s like the granddaddy of textured maples, offering a visual treat that evolves with age.

For more on Japanese maples, check out our Introduction to Japanese Maples or explore the Higashiyama: The Umbrella Mountain Maple for another fascinating variety.

Hime Shojo: The Dwarf Maple

Welcome to the whimsical world of the Hime Shojo, the dwarf maple that packs a punch in a pint-sized package! This delightful little tree is known for its multi-branching habit, making it as interesting as it is fun.

“It’s a really great, dwarf maple. It has this multi branching habit that’s just so interesting and fun.”

Overview of the Hime Shojo Maple

The Hime Shojo, or Acer palmatum, is a charming addition to any garden. Its compact size makes it perfect for small spaces, yet it doesn’t skimp on style or personality.

Unique Features and Seasonal Changes

This maple is a showstopper throughout the seasons. In spring, it bursts forth with vibrant red leaves that gradually deepen in color. As autumn approaches, the foliage transforms into a fiery spectacle, ensuring your garden remains lively year-round.

Ideal Growing Conditions and Zones

Hime Shojo thrives in well-drained soil and prefers partial shade to full sun. It’s hardy in zones 5 through 8, making it a versatile choice for many climates.

Comparison with Other Dwarf Maples

While the Hime Shojo shares its dwarf status with other maples, its unique branching and color transitions set it apart. It’s a standout choice for those looking to add a touch of elegance and intrigue to their landscape.

For more on Japanese maples, check out our Introduction to Japanese Maples or explore the Japanese Princess Maple for more maple magic!

Ruby Teardrops: The Spruce with a Twist

Welcome to the whimsical world of the Ruby Teardrops spruce! This isn’t just any spruce; it’s a blue Colorado spruce with a flair for the dramatic. Imagine a tree that not only adds a splash of blue to your garden but also surprises you with red cones in early winter. Talk about a showstopper!

“It’s a beautiful blue Colorado spruce with really cool, red, cones that kind of come out more towards the early winter.”

Unique Features and Seasonal Changes

The Ruby Teardrops spruce is known for its striking globe shape as it matures. The red cones provide a stunning contrast against the blue-green foliage, making it a visual delight during the colder months. These cones can last up to two months if given some shade, adding a pop of color to your winter landscape.

Ideal Growing Conditions and Zones

This spruce is perfect for both container gardens and in-ground planting. It maintains a smaller stature, reaching about three to four feet in height and width, making it ideal for compact spaces. The Ruby Teardrops thrives in zones three through seven, but remember, containers can reduce cold hardiness by one zone.

Comparison with Other Spruces

While the Ruby Teardrops is a standout on its own, it pairs beautifully with plants like the chartreuse Aureum or other conifers like the Mozarei. Its intense blue shades, especially in winter, make it a perfect companion for adding contrast and vibrancy to your garden.

For more on unique plants, check out our Higashiyama: The Umbrella Mountain Maple or Ukigumo: The Floating Cloud Maple.