Japanese Maple Acer palmatum 'Beni-maiko' (P)

Names

• Family

  Sapindaceae

• Synonyms

  Japanese Maple, Red Dancing Girl Maple

• Common names

  Acer palmatum 'Beni-maiko'

Toxicity

• To humans

  The Japanese Maple is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant reports of poisoning or toxic effects from ingesting any part of the Japanese Maple. Therefore, no symptoms of poisoning are typically associated with this plant.

• To pets

  The Japanese Maple is also generally considered non-toxic to pets. It is not known to cause any serious illness or symptoms of poisoning in animals like cats and dogs if they ingest parts of the plant. However, as with any non-food plant material, ingestion can potentially result in mild gastrointestinal upset.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Mixed

• Height

  6 feet (1.8 meters)

• Spread

  5 feet (1.5 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5-9

• Native area

  Japan

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: The Japanese Maple, specifically 'Beni-maiko', is praised for its striking red foliage, which adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
• Seasonal Interest: It provides year-round visual interest with its changing leaf colors throughout the seasons—bright red in spring, deeper tones in summer, and fiery hues in fall.
• Shade Tolerance: This variety tolerates shade well, making it suitable for planting under larger trees or in partially shaded areas.
• Compact Size: Its smaller stature makes it ideal for use in residential landscapes, including small yards and gardens.
• Minimal Maintenance: Once established, the Japanese Maple requires relatively low maintenance, needing only occasional pruning and watering during dry periods.
• Versatility in Landscape Design: The tree can be featured as a specimen plant, used in group plantings, or incorporated into border and foundation plantings.
• Cultural Significance: It holds a significant place in Japanese culture and garden design, making it an excellent choice for Japanese-themed gardens.
• Habitat Support: The tree provides habitat and shelter for birds and other wildlife within its branches.
• Non-Invasive Roots: The root system is typically non-invasive, making it a safe choice to plant near walkways, patios, and structures.
• Bonsai Suitability: 'Beni-maiko' can be trained as a bonsai, offering enthusiasts a beautiful and traditional species for this ancient art form.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Acer palmatum 'Beni-maiko', commonly known as Japanese Maple, can be used as a bonsai specimen due to its attractive foliage and the ability to be trained into miniature forms.
• The wood of Japanese Maple is sometimes utilized in the creation of small, decorative woodwork projects like jewelry boxes, due to its fine texture and workability.
• The leaves of Japanese Maple can be pressed and preserved for use in craft projects such as resin jewelry, bookmark making or in custom stationary designs.
• Japanese Maple is often used in landscape photography as a focal point because of its striking red leaves, especially during the fall season.
• In a garden setting, Japanese Maple can be planted to create natural shade for smaller shade-loving plants that require protection from direct sunlight.
• The tree serves as an inspiration to artists and is often depicted in paintings and digital art, capturing the beauty of its foliage and form.
• Juvenile branches of Japanese Maple may be harvested and used in floral arrangements to add height and a touch of crimson color.
• The structure of Japanese Maple can be incorporated into garden designs that aim to mimic natural or miniature landscapes, often found in traditional Japanese gardens.
• The fallen leaves of the Japanese Maple can be used to create natural mulch for garden beds, providing nutrients to the soil as they decompose.
• Acer palmatum ‘Beni-maiko’ is planted in larger pots and used as a patio or deck plant to add an element of sophisticated foliage color in outdoor living spaces.

Feng Shui

The Japanese Maple can be utilized in Feng Shui to bring in nurturing, supportive energy, due to its finely divided leaves and soft foliage that can enhance the flow of chi. Its red leaves are particularly useful in the Fame area of the Bagua to invite recognition and social success, or in the Wealth area to represent growth and prosperity.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Japanese Maple is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Beauty: Acer palmatum 'Beni-maiko', commonly known as Japanese Maple, often symbolizes beauty due to its delicate leaves and striking color, especially in the spring when the new leaves are a vibrant red.
• Peace: In Japanese culture, the maple tree is a symbol of peace and serenity, and the calming presence of the Japanese Maple in gardens is believed to bring tranquility.
• Grace: The tree's elegant form and the gentle way its leaves move in the breeze represent grace and elegance.
• Endurance: Despite its delicate appearance, the Japanese Maple is quite hardy, symbolizing endurance and the ability to withstand challenges.
• Balance: With its finely cut leaves and balanced shape, the Japanese Maple also represents balance, reminding those who contemplate it of the importance of harmony in life.