Japanese Maples

Look around Fresno or any Central Valley city and you'll find beautiful Japanese Maples. Though Fresno is not the best climate for these 'small' trees, they are adaptable to many environments. 

The common Green Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) will do well in full sun, with the outer leaves typically showing some heat scorch in late summer. Hot summer winds can also dry out tender new growth.

Red Japanese Maples such as Bloodgood, Oshio Beni, or Emperor 1 do not fare as well, it is best to plant them where there is shade by noon. An odd characteristic of Red Japanese Maples is that the sun brings the red pigment out in the leaves, yet too much shade causes them to look greenish in the summer. They need just the right amount of sun, it’s a 'catch-22'.

Unique Japanese Maple Varieties

• ‘Seiryu’ is a narrow leaf green variety (Acer p. 'dissectum') that grows particularly well in full sun. Growth habit is upright 10-20’ tall, its delicate appearance is a great addition to any garden.

• ‘Lion's Mane’ is a slow-growing green variety with 'tufts' of curly leaves. It is best grown in filtered shade.

• Coral Bark (‘Sango-kaku’) is a light green leaf variety that needs afternoon shade. This is a beautiful tree in winter, the cold weather turns the bare branches coral-orange for a spectacular winter display.

• All Japanese Maples need rich, well-drained soil plus extra food. Slow release organic fertilizers and extra potassium will help minimize heat scorch.

• Pruning Japanese Maples is a little different than regular trees, it is much simpler and easier to explain if you visit the nursery. Ask for Leonard.