About
Acer nipponicum is a deciduous tree that can reach heights of approximately 20 meters. The foliage consists of sizable, shallowly lobed green leaves that can measure up to 25 centimeters in width, each lobe tapering to a point. The leaves exhibit a textured surface with pronounced veins and are initially covered in rust-colored hairs on their undersides. In spring, the tree produces dense clusters of small yellow-green flowers, which are succeeded by winged fruits. During the autumn months, the leaves transition to a yellow hue.
About the genus
Acer consists of deciduous trees or sizable shrubs featuring pairs of leaves that are frequently palmately lobed. These plants produce small flowers that give way to distinctive winged fruits. Numerous species display vibrant autumn foliage, while certain varieties also exhibit decorative stems.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- Higher than 12 metres
- Spread
- wider than 8 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural
- Native to
- Japan
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in moisture-retentive, well-drained soil in sun or part shade
- Pruning
- Minimal pruning required; see pruning group 1. Prune from late autumn to mid-winter only
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed in autumn or spring, or by softwood cuttings in summer
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to Acer gall mite, aphids, caterpillars and horse chestnut scale
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to Verticillium wilt, Acer leaf scorch and honey fungus