Japanese Maple

• Position: partial shade or full sun (but not south-facing)
• Soil: fertile, moist, well-drained neutral to acid soil
• Rate of growth: slow-growing
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  A pretty little tree, this has feathery, garnet-coloured leaves that turn bright scarlet in autumn and look as if they have been shredded. Its rounded, compact habit makes it a perfect focal point for in a small garden, particularly in a container. Or try it alongside an ornamental pool, where its sculptural shape will be reflected in the water. It needs a sheltered spot, away from strong winds or scorching sun, though its leaf colour is best enjoyed in a sunny position.
  
  
• Garden care: Add a top-dressing of a multi-purpose fertiliser around the base of a newly planted tree in late spring and keep well watered. No routine pruning is necessary. Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches in April.
  
  Goes well with: Acer palmatum var. dissectum, Pulmonaria officinalis Sissinghurst White, Epimedium x rubrum, Dryopteris filix-mas,  Galanthus nivalis