Japanese maples are some of the most beautiful trees you can add to your yard. They come in many shapes and colors, making them perfect for gardens of all sizes. These trees are known for their pretty leaves and lovely fall colors. In this blog, we will talk about some of the most common types of Japanese maples and how they can make your garden look amazing!
What Makes Japanese Maples Special?
Japanese maples (Acer palmatum) are small to medium-sized trees. They are known for their delicate, lacy leaves that turn bright colors in the fall, like red, orange, and yellow. These trees are great for smaller yards because they don’t grow too big. They like shade, so they do best when they get a little protection from the hot afternoon sun.
Common Types of Japanese Maples
Here are some of the most popular types of Japanese maples that you might want to add to your yard:
1. Bloodgood Japanese Maple
The Bloodgood Japanese maple is one of the most popular types. It has dark red-purple leaves that turn bright red in the fall. This tree grows to about 15 to 20 feet tall, so it fits well in small spaces. It’s perfect if you want a tree with stunning color that can handle some sun and shade.
2. Crimson Queen Japanese Maple
The Crimson Queen is a beautiful weeping variety of Japanese maple. This tree has deep red, lace-like leaves that cascade down, making it look graceful and elegant. It’s great for adding a dramatic touch to your yard, and it only grows to about 6 to 8 feet tall, so it works well in small gardens or containers.
3. Green Japanese Maple
If you like a more peaceful look, the Green Japanese maple might be the tree for you. This tree has soft green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. It has a tall, vase-like shape and grows to about 15 to 20 feet. It loves shade and adds a calm, beautiful touch to any garden.
4. Sango Kaku (Coral Bark Maple)
The Sango Kaku, or Coral Bark maple, is known for its bright coral-red bark, which looks beautiful in winter. This tree has green leaves that turn gold and yellow in the fall. The Sango Kaku grows to about 15 to 20 feet tall and is perfect if you want a tree that has colorful bark and beautiful leaves all year long.
5. Shishigashira (Lion’s Head Maple)
The Shishigashira, also called the Lion’s Head maple, is a small tree with a round, bushy shape. It has small, curly leaves that are green in the summer and turn golden or red in the fall. This tree grows slowly, reaching about 6 to 8 feet tall, making it great for small spaces or as a unique addition to your garden.
6. Tamukeyama Japanese Maple
The Tamukeyama is another weeping Japanese maple, with deep purple-red leaves that turn bright red in the fall. This tree has a cascading form, which looks lovely when planted as a focal point in your yard. It’s perfect for small spaces, growing to about 6 to 8 feet tall.
7. Emperor 1 Japanese Maple
The Emperor 1 Japanese maple is a striking tree with deep red leaves that stay bright all season. In the fall, the leaves turn an even darker red. This tree grows to about 15 feet tall and works well in both sun and shade, making it a great choice for any yard.
Tips for Growing Japanese Maples
Japanese maples are easy to take care of, but they do need a little attention:
- Sunlight: Most Japanese maples like partial shade, meaning they should be protected from hot afternoon sun. In cooler places, they can handle more sun.
- Soil: They do best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil, so make sure the ground isn’t too heavy or wet.
- Watering: Keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Water the tree deeply, especially during dry weather.
- Pruning: Prune lightly to keep the tree’s shape. It’s best to trim it in the winter or early spring before new leaves grow.
Conclusion
Japanese maples are perfect trees for adding beauty and color to your yard. Whether you like the deep red leaves of the Bloodgood or the graceful form of the Crimson Queen, there’s a Japanese maple that will fit your garden. With the right care, these trees will bring stunning beauty to your yard all year long. Consider planting one today and enjoy the beauty of Japanese maples in your garden!
