Japanese Maple Acer palmatum 'Orange Dream' (P)

Names

• Family

  Sapindaceae.

• Synonyms

  Japanese Maple, Smooth Japanese Maple.

• Common names

  Acer palmatum 'Orange Dream'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The Japanese Maple is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting parts of this plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could cause adverse reactions in some people.

• To pets

  The Japanese Maple is also generally considered non-toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. It is not known to cause poisoning if pets ingest its leaves or seeds. However, it is always wise to prevent your pets from eating plants as a precautionary measure, and to monitor for any signs of illness if they do consume any plant material.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Mixed

• Height

  10 feet (3 meters)

• Spread

  8 feet (2.4 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Japan

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: This Japanese Maple cultivar is prized for its beautiful foliage, with leaves turning from a bright orange in spring to yellow-green in summer and then to a vibrant orange-yellow in the fall.
• Size Appropriate for Small Gardens: Acer palmatum 'Orange Dream' has a compact growth habit, making it suitable for smaller gardens or spaces with limited room.
• Shade Tolerance: It can tolerate partial shade, giving gardeners more options for planting in different garden aspects.
• Seasonal Interest: This tree offers visual interest across multiple seasons with its changing leaf colors and delicate structure.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, only needing occasional pruning to maintain desired shape and health.
• Attracts Wildlife: The tree can attract birds and butterflies, adding to the biodiversity of the garden.
• Provides Privacy: When planted in groups, Japanese Maples can create a screen that offers some privacy while still being aesthetically pleasing.
• Container Planting: Suitable for growing in containers, it is an ideal choice for patios and decks.
• Improved Microclimate: The canopy can offer a cooler microclimate in hot summers and some protection from harsh weather for underplantings.
• Cultural Significance: Japanese Maples are often associated with peace and serenity, and can contribute to a calming atmosphere in the garden.

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 'Orange Dream', commonly known as Japanese maple, can be used in bonsai cultivation for creating miniature landscapes due to its small leaves and attractive branching patterns.
• The leaves of the Japanese maple can be pressed and preserved to create botanical art, taking advantage of their vibrant orange and red hues during the fall season.
• Japanese maple wood, though not commonly used due to the tree's small size, can be crafted into fine woodworking projects such as jewelry boxes or picture frames.
• The striking colors of Japanese maple can be part of a sensory garden, especially designed for visual stimulation to soothe and uplift visitors.
• Japanese maple branches can be incorporated into floral arrangements or used as a natural base for mounting air plants or orchids.
• In photography, Japanese maple trees can serve as a serene backdrop for portraiture or as a subject for nature photography, particularly during autumn.
• Ceremonial spaces such as tea gardens or meditation areas often utilize Japanese maple trees for their serene and contemplative aesthetic.
• Leaves from the Japanese maple can be used in crafting, such as making autumn-themed garlands or incorporated into handmade paper.
• Japanese maple can be installed as part of a living fence or privacy screen, with its dense foliage providing seclusion and beauty.
• The tree can be strategically planted in a garden to provide shade for shade-loving plants, as its canopy allows filtered sunlight to pass through.

Feng Shui

The Japanese Maple is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Japanese Maple is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Beauty in Change: Representing the 'Orange Dream' Japanese Maple, this symbolism reflects the plant’s vivid color transformation through seasons, displaying the elegance of nature's cycles.
• Peace and Tranquility: The serene growth habit and graceful structure of the Japanese Maple are often seen as embodying a quiet, peaceful existence.
• Balance: With its harmonious canopy and branched symmetry, the Japanese Maple symbolizes balance in life, encouraging a sense of calm and equilibrium.
• Endurance and Strength: Despite its delicate appearance, the Japanese Maple is a hardy species, symbolizing the ability to withstand challenges and remain strong.