Key features
Final size3 x 2 metres in 20 years
FoliageLobed leaves with autumn colour (deciduous)
BarkWinter stem colour
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
Acer palmatum ‘Beni Kawa’ boasts attractive reddish purple flowers in spring, bright green foliage in summer and brilliant coral red stems in winter. Beni-kawa is very similar to the better known Acer palmatum Sango Kaku, but develops into a slightly taller tree, reaching a height of about 3 metres in maturity. Like all Japanese maples, Acer palmatum Beni Kawa has good autumn colour, displaying vibrant shades of bronzed oranges and yellows, however the main attraction to Acer Beni Kawa is the wonderful stem colour, revealed once the leaves have fallen.
This small garden tree will have the biggest impact on your garden when planted in a situation where the winter sunshine highlights the stunning stems. Beni Kawa will grow well in most soils but is best suited to well-drained, moist conditions in partial shade, although it can tolerate full sun.
AKA Acer palmatum ‘Beni-kawa’, Beni Kawa Japanese Maple, Coral Bark Maple tree
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Japanese Maples require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. If possible, use rain water instead of tap water as this is more acidic and better for foliage colour. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
Their natural shape is normally the most attractive, so Japanese Maples rarely need pruning. Any pruning should be carried out with a less is more approach, only removing crossing, damaged or diseased branches. Pruning should be carried out in the dormant season (November to March) as Japanese Maples bleed during other times of the year, which can weaken the branches.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
