Acer Palmatum or Japanese Maples include ever increasing numbers of new and interesting forms almost by the month. They range from dwarf shrubs up to small trees.

Best planted in slightly acidic soil and not too wet. If your soil is not acidic, include some peat in the backfil.

When pruning Japanese maples you should consider doing in autumn/winter when the sap is falling as doing it in spring can make them bleed too much and it is possible to lose entire limbs.

Acer palmatum Suminagashi is a large deciduous shrub or small tree with deeply cut purple foliage that turns crimson in autumn. They are fairly easy to grow and prefer a little dapple shade and a site out of strong winds. Height can reach 2-3 meters.