Fullmoon Maple
acer japonicum
Also known as: ["Japanese Maple","Round-lobed Maple"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Japan, known for its rounded leaves with deeply lobed margins and vibrant autumn colors.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Genus: | Acer |
| Botanical Name: | Acer japonicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape and thin overcrowded branches.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun, filtered afternoon light). Protect from harsh, direct afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid leaf scorch. Place in dappled light or filtered shade, especially in hot climates. Indoors, use a north or east-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun, protected from harsh afternoon sun
Avoid hot afternoon sun; provide filtered light; rotate for even growth
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the soil dry out completely, and reduce watering in winter dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure good drainage; use organic amendments; check pH periodically
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates cold but may suffer in extreme heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate humidity
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring only; avoid over-fertilizing; use balanced NPK formula
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer or seed propagation in autumn.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; autumn for seeds.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or coarse sand for cuttings; well-draining seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seeds can take several months to germinate and establish.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, misting spray bottle
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and removal of crossing or weak branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage healthy growth. Focus on structural improvement and aesthetic form.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood; thin overcrowded areas; shape the canopy
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Younger plants may need repotting more frequently.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; trim roots if needed; water after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter. Adjust based on rainfall and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch (brown edges), wilting, premature leaf drop, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop, and growth can slow or stop. Young or newly planted trees are more vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots, protect from harsh winds, and avoid planting in exposed, cold pockets.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop. Growth can be stunted, and the plant may become more susceptible to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, and ensure good air circulation to reduce stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid feed; stop in fall/winter
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season, avoiding winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest the seeds or berries of Acer japonicum may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised due to the potential for more severe reactions in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of the seeds and berries of Acer japonicum by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxins present are not highly concentrated but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe seeds and berries of Acer japonicum contain small amounts of toxins that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Acer japonicum grow?
A: It typically reaches 15–20 feet in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
Q: When does it bloom?
A: It produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spring, followed by winged seeds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapindaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun, pro |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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