Smooth Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum

Like many maple trees, the Smooth Japanese Maple produces winged seeds in structures known as samaras.

Arboretum Location: The Muniment Room

Division: Shrub

Family: Sapindaceae

Origins: China, Japan, Korea

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About

Smooth Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum, commonly known as the Smooth Japanese Maple, is renowned for its distinctive bark and elegant height. The bark of this maple cultivar is smooth and often displays a range of vibrant colours, including shades of green, red, or brown.

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The Appearance

A small deciduous tree with a graceful, spreading form and deeply lobed leaves that come in a variety of colors from green to deep red.

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The Produce

The samaras of the smooth Japanese maple are small, paired seeds attached to a flattened wing.

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The Flowers

Produces small, red to purple flowers in spring, which are not particularly showy but add to the tree’s delicate appearance.

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The Leaves

Each leaf is palmate, meaning it has multiple lobes that radiate from a central point, resembling an open hand.

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The Bark

The bark is smooth and gray when young, becoming rough and fissured with age. Some varieties have strikingly colored bark.

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The Habitat

Prefers moist, well-drained soils and partial shade. Commonly found in gardens, parks, and as bonsai specimens.

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The Ecology

Provides habitat and food for various insects and birds. The foliage offers cover for small wildlife.

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The Culture

Highly valued in ornamental horticulture for its beautiful foliage and elegant form. Often used in Japanese gardens and as specimen trees.

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Fun Facts

Japanese Maples are known for their stunning fall colors, which range from bright yellow to deep crimson, making them a favorite in landscape design.

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