Scientific Name
Acer palmatum
Aceraceae
Characteristics
The Japanese Maple is a deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach heights of up to 33 feet that often takes on a dome-like form when it matures in good conditions. It may also have multiple trunks joining close to the ground. The flowers produced are individual with five red or purple sepals and five whitish petals. The fruit is a pair of winged samaras. These trees are particularly suitable for borders and ornamental paths because the root systems are compact and not invasive. Many varieties of Acer palmatum are successfully grown in containers.