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Acer palmatum 'Sango-kaku'
coral-bark maple ( syn. Acer Senkaki)
Acer palmatum 'Sango-kaku' is one of the best (and most popular) Japanese maples, as it looks fabulous all year round. It...
A winter warmer with pink-red shoots and branches, this chameleon of an acer has pink-green leaves in spring but they age to mustard yellow as they fall
Plant description
It has pale green, deeply cut leaves that turn soft shades of yellow in autumn, and it also looks gorgeous in winter, after all the leaves have fallen, when its new shoots glow coral red in the winter sunlight.
Try it next to a path, or in front of a window, where the autumn and winter colour can be fully appreciated, or as part of a winter border. It needs a shaded, sheltered spot, away from strong winds.
Eventual height & spread
Plant features
Position
Light shade
Rate of growth
Slow growing
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Acer palmatum Sango-kaku:
Plant in well-drained, acidic to neutral soil that is rich in organic matter, avoiding waterlogged or chalky conditions. When planting, ensure the root ball sits at the same level as it was in its nursery container, and water thoroughly to help establish strong roots. A layer of mulch, such as leaf mould or bark, will help retain moisture and suppress weeds but keep it clear of the trunk to prevent rot.
During dry spells, water young trees regularly, especially in their first few years. Even mature Japanese maples benefit from deep watering in hot weather to prevent leaf scorch.
A top-dressing of a multi-purpose fertiliser in late spring supports healthy growth, but avoid excessive feeding, as too much nitrogen can lead to soft, leggy growth that is more susceptible to damage.
These trees require little routine pruning. Simply remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late autumn or winter while the tree is dormant. Avoid heavy pruning, as Japanese maples have a naturally graceful form that is best left unspoiled. If shaping is necessary, make minor adjustments in midsummer to minimise sap bleeding.
Container-grown specimens need extra care, including more frequent watering and, if not going up in pot size, occasional root pruning (late winter to early spring) to prevent becoming pot-bound. Mix ericaceous compost into the soil when planting, or add to loam based compost if planting in containers.
Please note:
GOES WELL WITH
Japanese
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