Acer palmatum 'Skeeter's Broom'
Japanese maple
This modest, upright Japanese maple is a striking addition to any garden, with vibrant red foliage that emerges in spring....
5 litre pot | ½ standard | 0.8 - 1m tall
£99.99
available to order from spring
10 litre pot | 0.9 - 1.2m tall | grafted
£129.99
available to order from spring
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Plant description
This modest, upright Japanese maple is a striking addition to any garden, with vibrant red foliage that emerges in spring.
The large, deeply lobed leaves are a standout feature, initially bright red, turning to a rich burgundy in summer. By autumn, the foliage transforms into brilliant ruby-red and orange tones, providing a dazzling display.
Acer palmatum 'Skeeter's Broom' is a dwarf form with a compact, narrow habit and thrives in moist, well-drained soil in a sunny to partially shaded spot, sheltered from strong winds.
Unlike other ‘Bloodgood’ related cultivars, this one has slightly larger leaves and holds its colour well throughout the season, making it perfect for adding vibrant interest to small spaces, borders, or containers.
The large, deeply lobed leaves are a standout feature, initially bright red, turning to a rich burgundy in summer. By autumn, the foliage transforms into brilliant ruby-red and orange tones, providing a dazzling display.
Acer palmatum 'Skeeter's Broom' is a dwarf form with a compact, narrow habit and thrives in moist, well-drained soil in a sunny to partially shaded spot, sheltered from strong winds.
Unlike other ‘Bloodgood’ related cultivars, this one has slightly larger leaves and holds its colour well throughout the season, making it perfect for adding vibrant interest to small spaces, borders, or containers.
Eventual height & spread
Plant features
Position
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth
Slow growing
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, but well-drained soil, or general-purpose loam-based potting compost
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Acer palmatum Skeeter's Broom:
Japanese maples thrive in sheltered positions with dappled shade, though many cultivars can tolerate full sun if given enough moisture. In exposed areas, protect young trees from strong winds, which can dry out and damage delicate foliage.
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.
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:
This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
