Coral Bark Japanese Maple Trees: A Guide for Beginners
Coral bark Japanese maple trees (Acer palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’) are a beautiful and unique variety of Japanese maple that adds interest to your landscape in all four seasons. Their reddish pink bark is especially striking in winter, when it stands out against the snow.
Description
Coral bark Japanese maple trees are small trees, typically reaching a height of 20 to 25 feet and a spread of 15 to 20 feet. They have a rounded shape and graceful, arching branches. The leaves are deeply lobed and turn a bright green in spring. In autumn, the leaves turn golden yellow and orange before falling off the tree.
The most striking feature of coral bark Japanese maple trees is their bark. In winter, the bark turns a beautiful reddish pink color. The intensity of the color depends on the amount of sun the tree receives. Trees that receive more sun will have a deeper pink bark.
Planting and Care
Coral bark Japanese maple trees prefer to grow in moist, well-draining soil. They should be planted in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Protection from high winds is also important.
When planting a coral bark Japanese maple tree, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Planting the tree too deeply can lead to root girdling. Water the tree deeply after planting and continue to water it regularly, especially during the first growing season.
Benefits
Coral bark Japanese maple trees are a beautiful and versatile addition to any landscape. They can be used as ornamental trees, shade trees, or even bonsai specimens. Their reddish pink bark is especially attractive in winter, when it provides a splash of color against the snow.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, coral bark Japanese maple trees also have a number of practical benefits. They are relatively low-maintenance trees and are tolerant of a variety of soil conditions. They are also resistant to most pests and diseases.
How to Choose the Right Planting Site
When choosing a planting site for a coral bark Japanese maple tree, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Sun exposure: Coral bark Japanese maple trees prefer to grow in full sun to partial shade. They should receive at least six hours of sunlight per day.
- Soil conditions: Coral bark Japanese maple trees prefer to grow in moist, well-draining soil. They cannot tolerate wet or compacted soils.
- Wind protection: Coral bark Japanese maple trees are relatively fragile and can be damaged by strong winds. They should be planted in a location that is protected from high winds.
How to Plant a Coral Bark Japanese Maple Tree
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
- Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
- Water the tree deeply and continue to water it regularly, especially during the first growing season.
How to Care for a Coral Bark Japanese Maple Tree
Coral bark Japanese maple trees are relatively low-maintenance trees. They require regular watering, especially during the first growing season. They also benefit from occasional fertilization.
To fertilize a coral bark Japanese maple tree, use a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and low in phosphorus. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Coral bark Japanese maple trees do not require regular pruning. However, you may need to remove any dead or diseased branches. You can also prune the tree to shape it or to control its size.
Pests and Diseases
Coral bark Japanese maple trees are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to the following problems:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can feed on the leaves of coral bark Japanese maple trees. They can cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow.
- Scale: Scale are small, armored insects that can attach themselves to the bark of coral bark Japanese maple trees. They can cause the bark to become discolored and weakened.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause a white powdery growth on the leaves of coral bark Japanese maple trees. It can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop off the tree.
If you notice any of these problems on your coral bark Japanese maple tree, you can treat them with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Conclusion
Coral bark Japanese maple trees are a beautiful and versatile addition to any landscape. They are relatively low-maintenance trees and are tolerant of a variety of soil conditions. They are also resistant to most pests and diseases. With proper care, coral bark Japanese maple trees can thrive for many years and provide you with years of enjoyment.
