Full Moon Maple
Another smaller growing maple that thrives in a semi shaded position is Acer japonicum ‘Vitifolium’ with attractive new bronze coloured growth. New foliage is green however the autumn colour is a brilliant red.
The small red flowers that appear with the new foliage in spring add colour and from these eventually the winged seeds (samaras) that will float to the ground in late summer.
This is an attractive tree, the foliage is a soft green and it adds interest from spring right through early winter.
Landscaping Uses
Widely used in Japanese garden design, also suited to inner city areas where Acer japonicum ‘Vitifolium’ is useful as a small street tree especially when planted in shaded areas, it only reaches around 5m and could be used as a small tree in a shady forecourt.
Also useful as a specimen tree at the rear of the border in smaller gardens and in cottage gardens.
How to Grow Acer japonicum ‘Vitifolium’
Choose a specimen with a good main leader as this maple can be a little shrubby if a poor form is chosen.
The best position will depend on climate zone. In cooler climates full sun to part, in warmer areas some protection from the hot afternoon sun is recommended to prevent leaf burn.
Plant in areas that are not exposed to full sun and hot drying winds for best performance.
A well drained soil is also essential, boggy soils are not suitable.
- Prepare soil well before planting by digging in organic mater such as compost.leaf cold, and aged cow manure.
- Put a support stake in place to ensure a good upright growth habit.
- Plant at the same depth your maple was in the container.
- Backfill and water in with liquid seaweed fertiliser.
- Mulch around the plant to suppress weeds and maintain a cool root run
- Water during long dry period, deep watering is best.
- Fertilise each spring with a slow release organic fertiliser and renew the mulch at this time.
Pruning and General care
Care is limited to removal of any dead or damaged branches. Any pruning of live wood should be carried out while the plant is in dormancy.
The Full Moon Maple is relatively disease free but remember it does require some moisture during dry periods.
Available for sale form the following nurseries
55 McDougal Rd Neerim South Victoria 3831 PH: (03) 56281507
Advanced ornamental trees and garden designs and concept plans. Direct to your property combined with specialist knowledge and outstanding service.
www.blericktreefarm.com.au
Carey Gully, Adelaide Hills.
Family business selling a large range of deciduous trees in pots 1-4m high. Crepe myrtle specialist. Includes Ornamental pears & plums, Red maples, Japanese maples, Gingko, Cercis, Ash, Birch, Crab apples, Weeping cherries, Gleditsia, Liquidambar and more. Hedging plants, evergreen trees & fruit trees.
www.adelaidetreefarm.com.au