Description

Key Characteristics:

• Foliage: The most distinctive feature is its seven-lobed, palmate leaves, which emerge in spring with a deep burgundy or crimson-red color. This rich coloration holds well throughout the summer, though it may fade to a more bronze-green in very hot weather or deep shade.
• Autumn Colour: In a brilliant seasonal finale, the foliage transitions to a vivid, fiery red before falling in late autumn.
• Growth Habit: It is a slow-growing, small tree with a bushy habit and delicate, upright branches. Over time, it can form a multi-stemmed specimen with a beautiful, rounded canopy. A mature tree can reach a height and spread of 4 to 8 meters.
• Flowers and Fruit: Inconspicuous red-purple flowers appear in spring, sometimes followed by small, winged fruits known as samaras.

Growing Conditions and Care:

• Position: For the best leaf colour, it thrives in a sheltered position that receives partial shade. While it can tolerate full sun, it is susceptible to leaf scorch from strong, drying winds and intense afternoon sun.
• Soil: It prefers moist but well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal, but it will tolerate most soil types as long as they are not waterlogged or excessively dry.
• Hardiness: This cultivar is fully hardy in the UK, able to withstand most winter conditions.
• Pruning: It requires minimal pruning. Any necessary pruning to remove dead or damaged branches should be done in late autumn or winter when the tree is dormant to prevent “bleeding” of sap.

Uses in Landscaping:

• Specimen Plant: Its beautiful form and vibrant foliage make it an excellent focal point in a lawn or border.
• Container Gardening: Its slow growth and compact nature make it suitable for growing in large pots, which allows it to be enjoyed on patios and in smaller gardens.
• Oriental-Style Gardens: Its classic appearance is perfect for creating a Japanese-style garden, often paired with rocks, water features, or complementary plants like ferns and hostas.
• Colour Contrast: The dark foliage provides a dramatic contrast with the greens and lighter colours of other plants, making it a valuable addition for creating visual interest.