A Tamukeyama maple (Acer palmatum var. dissectum ‘Tamukeyama’) is a type of Japanese maple with elongated, lacy leaves that turn a rich purple-red in fall. Tamukeyama Japanese maples are dwarf trees that can grow up to about 8 feet tall and 12 feet wide (but are often smaller), making them ideal for smaller gardens or to add to spaces that aren’t suitable for larger trees. They can even be grown in containers and on patio areas.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Acer palmatum ‘Tamukeyama’ (Japanese Maple) is a dwarf, mound-forming, deciduous shrub or small tree with strongly cascading branches forming a graceful, dome-shaped specimen over time. The delicate foliage of finely-cut leaves emerges deep crimson-red in the spring and changes to a very dark purple-red in the summer. In the fall, the leaves turn bright scarlet before shedding to the ground. They reveal on mature plants, the elegantly twisted branches, and waxy, deep red bark that stand out through the winter months.
In spring, this Japanese Maple produces small purple-red flowers that give way to greenish samaras, which ripen in late summer to early fall. While attractive close-up, the flowers are however not particularly showy from a distance. This charming Japanese Maple makes a wonderful specimen plant and is a great choice for the patio. It is an old cultivar, dating back to 1710.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Plant your ‘Tamukeyama’ in a partially shaded area to protect the foliage from intense sunlight. This helps maintain the rich burgundy-red coloration.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering. During dry periods, increase watering frequency to prevent stress on the tree.
Soil
Plant in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level. If the soil in your area is heavy or clayey, amend it with organic matter to improve drainage.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser formulated for Japanese Maples in early spring and mid-summer to support healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Planting Instructions
Give your Tamukeyama Japanese maple tree the best start in life by planting it in the right conditions. If you want to plant your tree outdoors, it’s important to know that Tamukeyama Japanese maples thrive in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8. This means there’s a wide range of areas where these trees can thrive, although they generally don’t love very hot climates. If you live in the South, for example, make sure the tree will have plenty of afternoon shade.
Select a spot in your garden where there’s room for the tree to grow to its full width and height as it doesn’t like being crowded. Place it where the soil is moist, easy draining, and slightly acidic (with a pH of 5.7 to 7.0). Tamukeyama Japanese maples like full sun in cooler climates and part sun/part shade elsewhere.
Spring and fall are the best seasons to plant your tree as weather conditions are milder. However, if you avoid very cold or very hot conditions, you can plant these trees at any time of year. Add some slow-release fertilizer to the soil when planting the tree to give it an extra boost of nutrients.
Pruning
Minimal pruning is needed for this variety. Remove any dead or crossing branches during late winter or early spring to enhance the tree’s form.
Propagation
By Cuttings
- Selecting Cuttings: Take semi-hardwood cuttings that have started to mature but are not yet woody in late summer to early autumn from the current season’s growth and select healthy branches free from diseases and pests.
- Planting Cuttings: Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix or propagation medium. You can plant several cuttings in the same container, spacing them out allowing for root development. Water the cuttings thoroughly after planting.
- Prepare the cuttings by cutting a 4- to 6-inch (10–15 cm) piece from a healthy branch right below a leaf node. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, leaving a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to promote root growth.
- Rooting: Place the container in a warm, bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It can take several weeks to several months for the cuttings to root. You can gently tug on the cuttings to check for resistance, which indicates that roots are forming.
- Transplanting: Transplant the cuttings into individual pots once they develope a robust root system. Continue to care for the young plants by providing regular watering, fertilizing, and protection from pests and diseases.
From Seeds
- Seed Collection: Harvest seeds from mature Tamukeyama Japanese maple trees in the fall when they are ripe. Seeds are typically found in samaras, which are the winged seed pods characteristic of maples.
- Seed Preparation: Japanese maple seeds have a hard outer shell that needs to be softened before planting to improve germination through stratification, which involves storing the seeds in a moist, cold environment for several weeks. You can stratify the seeds by placing them in a plastic bag with damp peat moss or vermiculite and storing them in the refrigerator for 60-90 days.
- Planting: After stratification, plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix in spring. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch, deep and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Germination: Germination can take several weeks to several months. Keep the seeds in a warm, bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Transplant into individual pots once the seeds have germinated and the seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves.
Pests and Diseases
Japanese maples can be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and powdery mildew. Regular inspection and appropriate treatment can help manage these issues.
In zones 9 and above, it may struggle with the heat and require extra care, such as providing afternoon shade and regular watering to thrive.
III. Uses and Benefits
Tamukeyama Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) is stunning and distinguished by its vivid red leaf and finely divided, lace-like leaves. It is a well-liked option for gardens and landscaping because of its gorgeous beauty and tiny size, which fits nicely with smaller areas.
A graceful, mounding, miniature tree with waxy, crimson bark and beautiful cascading branches. Its richly divided foliage changes to a vivid scarlet in the fall after remaining a stunning purple-red color all summer. It is ideal as an accent in gardens with an Asian theme and appropriate for use as a specimen container.
