Japanese Maple Acer palmatum 'Beni-tsukasa' (P/v)

Water

The Japanese Maple, specifically the 'Beni-tsukasa' variety, should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. In the growing season, water this tree once or twice a week, providing approximately 1.5 gallons of water each time for young trees and up to 4 gallons for mature trees, depending on the rainfall and temperature. During hot or dry periods, increase the frequency as needed, but always allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Less water may be required during the winter months when the tree is dormant. It's crucial to provide deep watering to encourage a strong root system rather than frequent light sprinklings.

Light

The 'Beni-tsukasa' Japanese Maple thrives best in partial shade, though it can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. In regions with harsher sunlight, it benefits from protection during the hottest parts of the day to prevent leaf scorch. A spot that receives morning sunlight with afternoon shade or dappled light throughout the day is ideal for maintaining the vibrant foliage color.

Temperature

Japanese Maple prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 90°F, but it's capable of withstanding brief periods outside of this range. The ideal temperature for 'Beni-tsukasa' is between 60°F and 80°F. It can survive winter temperatures down to about -10°F, although significant cold may damage young shoots.

Pruning

Prune the 'Beni-tsukasa' Japanese Maple in late winter to early spring to remove any dead or intersecting branches and to maintain its shape. This also encourages healthier growth during the growing season. Pruning may be performed annually or every two to three years, depending on the tree's performance and desired aesthetic. The best time for major shaping is when the tree is still dormant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Japanese Maple 'Beni-tsukasa' prefers a well-draining, acidic to slightly acidic soil mix with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. A mix of 1 part peat, 1 part pine bark, and 1 part coarse sand or perlite is recommended to provide the right texture and fertility.

Repotting

Japanese Maple 'Beni-tsukasa' should be repotted every 2-3 years, preferably in the early spring before the leaves develop. Younger trees may need repotting more frequently, while mature trees can be repotted less often.

Humidity & Misting

Japanese Maple 'Beni-tsukasa' does best in moderate humidity levels but can tolerate a range of conditions as long as the roots are kept moist and not waterlogged. Avoid placing it in very dry or overly humid environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, no direct sun, and consistent moist soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in dappled shade, protect from strong winds, water regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

'Beni-tsukasa' Japanese Maple starts its life as a seed, which after stratification, begins to germinate in early spring. The young seedlings establish a root system and produce a set of embryonic leaves before transitioning to true leaves. As the plant grows, it enters a juvenile phase where it increases in size and begins to take on the characteristics of a mature Japanese Maple, developing its distinctive palmate leaves with red or reddish-pink coloring. Over several years, the tree matures and becomes capable of flowering and producing seeds of its own, typically around 5-10 years after germination. Flowers are usually inconspicuous, and if pollinated, they give way to samaras, the characteristic winged seeds. The 'Beni-tsukasa' Japanese Maple can live for many decades, with some specimens surviving over a century, undergoing cycles of growth, seed production, and dormancy each year.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late winter-early spring

• The most popular method of propagating the Japanese Maple 'Beni-tsukasa' is through softwood cuttings, typically taken in late spring or early summer when the new growth is still flexible. To propagate, a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long with several sets of leaves is taken from the parent plant. The bottom leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to enhance root development. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring the remaining leaves do not touch the soil to prevent rot. The environment should be kept humid, often by covering the cutting with a plastic bag or dome, and the soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Roots usually form within a few weeks to a couple of months, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to less humid conditions before being planted out.