Japanese Maples are a favorite plant here at Warner Nursery. We usually sell around 10 species per season. When asked for some words on his favorite group of plants, Justin Bridges spoke to me his thoughts on the genus.
"In a massive genus of around 600 species, maples throughout temperate climates become very apparent, especially this time of year. Having been asked to pick 3 from only 1 species, I can only try. "
He went on to say that Acer palmatum 'Ogakazuki' is his first choice. This variety is a full-sized, upright, fast-growing tree. It matures at 30-50'. It is very old and has a long history of cultivation in Japan. It boasts startling red Fall color.
Next up was Acer shirasawanum 'Aureum' -- The 'Full Moon' Maple. With leaves almost circular, chartreuse throughout the seasons. It needs a partial exposure to protect from early and late frosts. Slow-growing, a mature 15-20' plant can rival pretty much any piece of plant material (and a couple of mammal and mineral species as well!!)
Thirdly, Acer palmatum, the true straight species is horribly under-used in the garden. The genus has endless selections and variety. In the wilds of Japan, it can grow much like our native Acer, to 20' or more. Justin says he would enjoy very much seeing its' popularity exploited even more. A group planting could be explosive in a garden or park.
The straight species is usually the understock for the cultivars to be grafted onto, so obtaining it should be easy. But, most of these understocks would be seed-grown, having interesting and varying characteristics themselves. It would seem cultivars could be selected from virtually any seed stocks. This is probably why there are so many cultivars of Acer palmatum.
Any thoughts on Japanese Maples...feel free to comment on this post. Justin loves to talk about Jap. Maples anytime!
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