Acer palmatum Skeeters Broom - Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum 'Skeeter's Broom' resembles A. palmatum 'Bloodgood' in terms of colour and appearance of its foliage, but it has a nice bushy habit and smaller size, making it particularly suitable for container gardening. Its remarkable foliage changes colour throughout the seasons, without losing its intensity in hot climates. Starting with bright red in spring and turning burgundy in summer, it takes on a scarlet red hue later than other Japanese maples. This dazzling small tree quickly becomes the centrepiece of a small garden or the focal point of a terrace. Plant it in partial shade in acidic soil or in a large pot, keeping the soil moist.

Originally from eastern China, Korea, and Japan, Acer palmatum has given rise to a multitude of horticultural varieties that compete in beauty. Like all maples, it belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It is relatively hardy, but only tolerates lime-free soils. The 'Skeeter's Broom' cultivar was discovered in Pennsylvania. It has a relatively slow growth rate, developing into a bushy, oddly erect habit, reaching about 1.5m (5ft) in all directions. This small tree has brownish to reddish bark and develops magnificent deciduous leaves, palmately lobed. Its foliage has a glossy texture. It constantly changes colour, in a range of red shades, without any trace of green. The leaves are opposite, 5 to 8cm (2 to 3in) long, divided into 5 to 7 elongated and pointed lobes. Discreet flowering takes place in May-June. The flowers, grouped in small clusters, sometimes produce winged fruits called samaras, about 3cm (1in) long. This variety is resistant to diseases.

Acer palmatum 'Skeeter's Broom' thrives in neutral to acidic, moist, fertile, well-drained soil, in a partially shaded position or in morning sun, sheltered from cold and dry winds. Compact yet sculptural, it is well suited for small Japanese or exotic style gardens, for ornamenting terraces and patios, as well as for shaded rockeries. Azaleas, pieris, rhododendrons, wild camellias, and heathers will be its most beautiful companions, as well as pink-leaved heucheras. It can be trained into a stunning flat bonsai. Combine multiple varieties of Japanese maple to vary the colours and structures of the foliage; the effect is always dazzling at the end of the season.