Dwarf Japanese Maple
Best Varieties of the Dwarf Japanese Maple
Gardeners looking for a striking ornamental landscape tree that will work in small garden areas or rock gardens often turn to the dwarf Japanese maple tree; many different cultivars provide a variety of colors, shapes and sizes from which to choose.
The term “dwarf” as it applies to the Japanese maple is meant to refer to the size of the tree, not an actual species of tree. All dwarf trees come from the same source, that being the wild Japanese maple tree. Within this category are two types: an actual dwarf and a semi-dwarf, but the term also includes those used as bonsai. The difference between dwarf and semi-dwarf is largely in the size, with dwarf trees resembling shrubs that reach about 4 feet in height as opposed to the 8 or 9 feet height of semi-dwarfs. When either of these is planted in containers which restrict their growth, a mini bonsai tree is created.
The most popular and the smallest of the dwarf Japanese maple varieties is the Beni Hime. It is an excellent choice for use as a bonsai tree; however, it is very difficult to find. An extremely slow growing specimen, the tree only reaches between 2 and 5 feet in height at maturity, with penny sized leaves. When used as an outside ornamental, such as in a rock garden, the tree does best with a morning sun exposure, while a shadier condition in the afternoon is preferred. This dwarf Japanese maple has pretty foliage; showing light pink to brilliant red in the spring and summer seasons, with fall bringing out gold and yellowish hues. In warmer climates that experience mild winters, the Beni Hime can remain outdoors when sheltered. In colder climates, keeping the diminutive beauty in a container will enable it to be moved indoors when the weather turns colder.
For those living in southern states where heat and humidity are the norm, most Japanese maples are not able to be successfully grown in outside gardens. An excellent exception to that is the Shaina, a dwarf Japanese maple featuring dense, almost blood red foliage through the spring and summer months. This red intensifies in color as fall approaches; reaching a lustrous crimson that will become the center of attention in any garden display.
A few words about caring for the dwarf Japanese maple; springtime is when most injury can occur to the tree. Most varieties begin to leaf early in the spring; a welcome spot of color after winter’s dreariness. However, if a late frost should come along, it will likely do considerable damage to these delicate leaves. Keep an ear to the forecast, and simply cover the maple if frost is predicted. Also, heavy snows can cause branches to snap if not brushed off the tree as soon as possible after falling.
A dwarf Japanese maple tree is one of the popular choices for small gardens, as well as for use as bonsai trees. Adding one to your landscape or patio will increase the visual appeal without much added work.