Acer palmatum atropurpureum JAPANESE RED MAPLE (10 seeds)

Japanese maple, also known as momiji, Acer palmatum atropurpureum in Latin, is a tree that belongs to the Aceraceae family. It is an Asian variety characterized by its spreading form and height ranging from 3 to 8 meters. Its growth is slow, but it has a long lifespan that can reach several decades.

It blooms in spring, from April to May, producing reddish to purple flowers that do not emit any particular scent.

Seeds of the Japanese maple are on average 5 millimeters in length and are oval in shape. They have a dark brown to light brown color, with a smooth and slightly shiny texture. They are harvested as early as October.

Its fruits are samaras, averaging 2 centimeters in length, dark brown in color, also known as helicopter seeds because they easily fly away with the wind while spinning, allowing them to reproduce in more distant areas.

This tree has bright red foliage, finely dissected and small in size, which starts to grow from the beginning of spring. Its leaves then fall as early as November, forming a beautiful vegetal carpet.

- Properties : 

Japanese maple is primarily prized for its exceptional ornamental qualities in gardens and green spaces. Thanks to its elegant habit and the diversity of its foliage, which changes color throughout the seasons, it often becomes the centerpiece of Zen or contemporary gardens.

Due to its non-invasive root system and graphic silhouette, this tree is an ideal candidate for container or planter cultivation. This use is particularly popular for decorating terraces, balconies, or shaded patios. It requires a well-draining, acidic substrate, offering a lasting aesthetic solution for those without an in-ground garden.

Finally, Japanese maple is an iconic species in the art of bonsai. Its ability to withstand pruning, the fineness of its branches, and the delicacy of its deeply lobed leaves make it a top choice for enthusiasts of this ancient discipline.

- Seeds Germination :

• To effectively sow the Japanese maple, it is highly recommended to stratify the seeds starting in January for 3 months in moist sand outdoors or in the refrigerator.
• Sow in a large pot of acidic pH substrate, ensuring to place the samaras (wings) facing up under 1 centimeter deep.
• Lightly compact the substrate by hand.
• Water the planting by gentle misting.
• Place the planting under a greenhouse where the temperature should be between 15 and 25°C.
• Germination will occur a few weeks later.

- Substrate / Soil Type : 

This variety must be planted in well-aerated substrate with an acidic pH; the ideal is to use heather soil.

- Exposure / Sunlight :

It grows in a sunny to partially shaded environment.

- Temperatures / Hardiness :

It is a very hardy tree, easily withstanding very harsh winters with temperatures dropping to -15°C.

- Watering : 

It requires regular watering if grown in a pot; watering twice a week seems sufficient. For ground cultivation, water well at planting, and during heatwaves; otherwise, the tips of the leaves may dry out.

- Reproduction Methods : 

The best method of reproduction is sowing. It is also possible to reproduce it by softwood cuttings at the end of summer.

- Pests / Diseases : 

It is sometimes attacked by scale insects or aphids if grown indoors. In open ground, it can occasionally be subject to powdery mildew, a fungus that causes its foliage to appear whitish.

- Maintenance : 

Regularly prune it from October to the end of December to maintain its beautiful shape. If the tree has dead branches, they should be removed as soon as possible, just above a healthy bud. To revitalize a weak plant, it is recommended to mulch its base with pine bark.