Acer palmatum var. amoenum, commonly known as Japanese Maple, including varieties such as Threadleaf, Laceleaf, or Cutleaf Japanese Maple, is a deciduous tree native to understory conditions in forests and woodlands, as well as mountain slopes in Japan, Korea, and China. This species typically grows slowly to a height and width of 8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters), making it an ideal size for residential gardens. The Japanese Maple is renowned for its delicate foliage and the intricate shapes of its leaves, which vary widely among cultivars. The leaves may be deeply cut or finely dissected, contributing to the common names that reflect the leaf morphology. Flower color ranges from red to green, and while the flowers are relatively inconspicuous, they bloom in spring and are followed by winged samaras that can add visual interest.

The Japanese Maple is highly valued for its stunning foliage that provides a spectacular display of colors in the fall, ranging from bright red to deep purple. It is often used in garden design for its aesthetic appeal, serving as a focal point in landscape plantings, container gardens, and bonsai. This tree requires protection from harsh conditions; it prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in medium or fast-draining clay, loam, or sandy soils. Adequate water is necessary, especially during dry periods. Some popular garden cultivars include ’Bloodgood’ with its deep red leaves and ’Sango-kaku’ known for its coral-red young branches. While generally pest-resistant, Japanese Maples can be susceptible to verticillium wilt and should be monitored for aphids and scale insects.CC BY-SA 4.0