Acer palmatum 'Sangokaku' (japonski javor koral) - primerki na slikah

Acer palmatum 'Sangokaku', also known as the "coral Japanese maple" or "Sango-kaku" (meaning "coral tower" in Japanese), is a cultivar of the species Acer palmatum from the Sapindaceae family. This small deciduous shrub or tree is valued for its delicate foliage and especially for its vibrant coral-red branches, which provide a striking visual display during the winter months. Native to Japan, it is a popular choice for ornamental gardens and, due to its slow growth and graceful appearance, is ideal for bonsai.

Appearance of leaves, flowers, and fruits

• Leaves: The leaves are hand-shaped, with 5-7 slender lobes, a light green in spring, with pinkish-red edges when they first appear. In summer they turn medium green, and in autumn they change to spectacular shades of golden yellow and orange, sometimes with reddish highlights. The leaves are small, 4-6 cm, and delicate, giving an airy look.
• Flowers: The flowers are small, purple, grouped in modest clusters, appearing in April-May. They are not ornamental but attract pollinators such as bees.
• Fruits: The fruits are paired winged seeds, initially pale red, turning brown when ripe, 1-2 cm long. They appear in summer but are not a strong aesthetic feature.
• Branches: Young branches are a bright coral red, especially in winter, when the contrast with snow is striking. This trait makes 'Sangokaku' unique among Japanese maples.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width: It grows as a shrub or small tree, reaching 4-6 meters tall and 3-4 meters wide in natural conditions, with a rounded, slightly arching crown. Growth is slow, making it suitable for small spaces.
• Vigor: It has slow to moderate growth, with fine but sturdy branches and a graceful habit.
• Type: It is a deciduous shrub/tree with a delicate branched structure, ideal for ornamental landscapes.

Growing conditions

• Exposure: Prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, ideally under trees with sparse crowns or near an east-facing wall. Full sun can scorch the leaves, especially in warm climates, while dense shade reduces color intensity.
• Soil: Requires fertile, well-drained soil, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7). A mix of garden soil, compost, and peat is ideal. It does not tolerate waterlogged or chalky soils.
• Watering: Needs regular watering, keeping the soil consistently moist but not flooded. A layer of organic mulch (e.g., bark) helps retain moisture.
• Pollination: Flowers attract pollinators, but the fruits are not important for ornamental value.

Care and hardiness

• Hardiness: It withstands temperatures down to -20°C (zones 5-8), making it suitable for temperate climates, including Romania. Young leaves may be damaged by late frosts, and branches may need protection in harsh winters.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring to stimulate growth. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes large leaves at the expense of color.
• Pruning: Prune minimally in January-February to remove dead or crossing branches and maintain shape. Heavy pruning can harm the natural appearance.
• Pests and diseases: May be affected by mites, aphids, or verticillium wilt. Good ventilation and drainage prevent diseases. Regularly inspect leaves for signs of stress.
• Wildlife: Flowers attract bees, and the winged seeds may be eaten by small birds.

Uses

Acer palmatum 'Sangokaku' is ideal for Japanese gardens, cottage-style landscapes, or as a solitary plant in small spaces. The coral-red branches provide winter visual interest, and the colorful foliage in spring and autumn completes the aesthetic. It can be grown in containers on terraces but requires protection from wind and cold.

Origin

Acer palmatum is native to Japan, Korea, and China, where it grows in temperate forests. The 'Sangokaku' cultivar was selected in Japan for its coral-red branches and delicate foliage, becoming one of the most valued Japanese maple varieties in ornamental horticulture due to its seasonal contrast.

Possibility of turning Acer palmatum 'Sangokaku' into bonsai

Acer palmatum 'Sangokaku' is one of the most popular choices for bonsai due to its natural and aesthetic features, which fit perfectly with miniaturizing techniques.

Pot diameter: 23 cm
Height including pot: approx. 80 cm - in some seasons the plants are pruned drastically to encourage branching.

Leaf color varies depending on the season. In summer the plant is green.