Acer palmatum Osakazuki - Japanese Maple

<p><strong>Japanese Maples are small trees or shrubs with palmate, divided foliage that changes colour throughout the seasons, displaying magnificent hues in autumn!</strong> They mainly include <em>Acer palmatum</em> and <em>Acer japonicum</em>, as well as the many varieties derived from them. <strong>They can be grown in pots and even pruned into bonsai trees!</strong> Their foliage astonishes with its incredible delicacy and often bursts into fiery shades in autumn, just before disappearing for winter! <strong>Their colours—typically purple, red, or orange—draw the eye in the garden.</strong> They brighten shady corners and play with the light. When planted as a standalone specimen, their striking silhouette impresses with natural elegance. The different varieties boast increasingly beautiful foliage, offering remarkable diversity in shape and colour!</p> <p>Japanese Maples are rather demanding shrubs that require ideal growing conditions to reach their full potential: <strong>partial shade, consistently cool and well-draining soil, porous, slightly acidic substrate</strong>… Once established, maintenance is minimal—just occasional watering during dry spells (except for potted specimens, which need more regular watering) and periodic compost and mulch at the base. <strong>Vigilance against diseases like verticillium wilt is crucial</strong>, as they can cause severe damage. Unless you’re aiming for a specific style, such as bonsai or niwaki, <strong>Japanese Maples require little to no pruning.</strong> These slow-growing small trees are perfect for compact gardens or container cultivation. Ideal for urban gardens, they pair beautifully with ferns and ornamental grasses and fit seamlessly into Japanese-inspired zen gardens.</p>