Acer spp.
Longfellow’s Garden Center offers a few select specialty Japanese Maple varieties each year. These varieties may need more care than others, but they showcase some of the most spectacular color and texture in the landscaping world.
Featured Varieties:
Shishigashira – Densely packed, crinkly leaves emerge lime green and deepen through summer. Fall color is vibrant orange. 8-10 ft tall & wide in 10 years.
Manyo no Sato – Multicolored leaves feature shades of green, pink, red, and purple through spring and summer. Fall color is red to orange. 6-8 ft tall & wide in 10 years.
Full Moon – Broad, lobed leaves are bright gold to green in spring and summer. Leaves showcase a gradient of hot colors in fall. 12-15 ft tall & wide in 10 years.
Sharp’s Pygmy – Super dwarf variety is green throughout spring and summer, turning vibrant red in fall. 4 ft tall & wide in 10 years.
- While able to tolerate full sun in cooler weather, Japanese Maples need afternoon shade to look their best through Missouri’s hot summers.
- Japanese Maples are susceptible to harsh winds, especially in winter. Consider planting them near a building, or add companion plants such as evergreens and large shrubs for extra protection.
- Avoid planting in soggy sites, but keep Japanese Maples well-watered through their first few years. They grow slow, so consistent moisture is key to getting their roots to take hold. Compost and mulch will help retain even soil moisture.
- Regular pruning isn’t necessary, but it is best to remove any dead or crisscrossed branches at least once a year.