Grown for the amazing cork like bark as much as the foliage, Acer palmatum Arakawa is commonly called the Rough Barked Maple or Cork Barked Maple.
As the plant ages, the bark becomes deeply fissured providing interest in the garden right through the year.
The foliage is a good green, leaves palmate with narrow lobes. in late summer to autumn the foliage turns to a golden yellow with touches of orange.
This is a species widely grown in Japan and also widely used in bonsai.
Over time Acer palmatum Arakawa can reach around 7 metres in height, (21ft) with a capons that can reach around 6 metres (18f).
Garden Uses
With its outstanding trunk, Acer palmatum Arakawa makes a good specimen tree in Japanese themed gardens. The trunk begins to develop the fissures and crack at an early age and these become more pronounced as it ages.
Care
Best grown in full sun to part shade depending on the climate, a well drained humus rich soil slightly on the acidic side will be best for growth.
We suggest afternoon shade in all but the cooler climates as this will promote better leaf colour, and prevent leaf burn in summer.
Propagation
Possible from seed although most common by grafting or softwood cuttings.