Well suited to zone 5 Acer japonicum ‘Vitifolium’ is commonly called the ‘Full Moon Maple’ or ‘Vine Leafed Maple’.
In spring small red flowers hang beneath the foliage. Foliage itself is green tinged with red when new. Reminiscent of a grape leaves, it turns to orange or red in Fall depending on the climate, the colder the climate the more red you will get.
Leaves have 10 – 12 lobes which form an attractive fan shape. The tree itself reaches around 15 ft in height (5m) and grows naturally into a nice vase shape.
One excellent example in in the Seattle Japanese Garden.
Care
Best grown in cool climates in a humus rich moist soil. Pruning is generality not required
When planting dig in some well rotted compost and ensure that drainage is good. Stake young plants , staking prevents the young plant from moving in the wind and helps ensure that the root system has time establish itself. It is also advisable to water in well with a liquid seaweed fertilizer which will promote good root growth.
Mulch around plants to help maintain moisture. A slow release fertilizer during its first 2 – 3 years will enhance growth.
Suited to Zones 6-9, consult local nurseries for more precise information.
Pruning
Pruning is rarely required as with most Japanese Maples growth habit is tidy and attractive. Any dead or damaged wood can be pruned back as required.
However some gardeners choose to prune back in early spring to encourage more of the new coral red stems. This will change the form of the tree, a matter of aesthetics.
Available for sale from the following Nurseries
DAVIDSANS JAPANESE MAPLES
919 S Farmingdale Rd New Berlin IL
phone : 217 303-2641
KIGI NURSERY
121 Noble Ridge Dr Kelso WA
phone 360 425-0541
