Acer pictum, commonly known as the painted maple or five-color maple, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Sapindaceae family. Native to Japan and Korea, this tree can grow to a height of 10 to 15 meters. It features a rounded crown with a spreading habit and thrives in both full sun and partial shade.
The leaves of Acer pictum are large, measuring up to 20 cm in length, and are deeply lobed with five distinct points. These leaves boast an attractive variegated pattern in shades of green, white, pinkish-red, and purple, which change throughout the seasons.
In the spring, Acer pictum produces small yellow-green flowers that grow in clusters at the ends of its branches. These flowers are followed by winged samaras, or seeds, which transition from green to brown by autumn.
Due to its striking foliage, Acer pictum is a popular choice for landscaping. It prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate a variety of soil types as long as they are not waterlogged.
Overall, Acer pictum is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a beautiful ornamental tree with unique, year-round foliage.
Painted maple is resistant to disease and is usually not susceptible to illnesses. Regarding care, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only minimal watering, and larger plants typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. Painted maplet is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or a deck, and does not require extensive care experience.
How to keep Acer Pictum.
Light
Painted maple comes from open habitats, such as sunny meadows and forest margins, which supply abundant light. It does best in full sun but can also tolerate partial sun, adapting well to various light conditions.
Water
The painted maple thrives in moderately moist soil, benefiting from consistent moisture without becoming waterlogged. Once established, it can tolerate moderate drought conditions. Watering should be done every 1-2 weeks, depending on the season. Providing adequate hydration during the growing season enhances the vibrancy of its foliage.
Temperature
Painted maple is native to areas with moderate temperatures and is not well adapted to extreme cold or heat. It prefers temperatures between 41 and 77 °F (5 to 25 ℃). Seasonal adjustments can include shading during summer and mulching to protect it in winter.
Fertilizer
Timing is important when fertilizing Painted maple. Apply fertilizer in early spring and continue monthly until early summer. Fertilizer encourages attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth periods.
Pruning
Pruning painted maple in early spring is crucial for improving its health and appearance. Key techniques include removing dead branches, thinning dense areas to enhance air circulation, and shaping the plant. This practice aligns with the tree's growth cycle, promoting robust new growth and reducing the risk of disease.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Acer
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 5-6
- Mature Height
- 9.14 m to 12.19 m
- Mature Spread
- 11.89 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Yellow
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Yellow, Green
- Flower Size
- 4.06 cm to 6.35 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early spring, Mid spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Other names.
Reader questions.
How much sunlight does a Painted Maple (Acer pictum) require?
A Painted Maple, or Acer pictum, thrives in various sunlight conditions depending on its needs. For full sun exposure, it requires above 6 hours of sunlight, making it ideal for spots that receive a lot of daylight. However, it can also prosper in partial sun, which means about 3-6 hours of sunlight. It's important to observe the movement of sunlight in your garden to find the perfect spot for your Painted Maple. This will ensure it gets a balance of light and shade, contributing to the plant's happiness.
What is the native environment of Painted Maple?
The Painted Maple, scientifically known as Acer pictum, is native to environments that experience moderate temperatures. It thrives in temperatures ranging between 41 to 77 °F (5 to 25 °C). This tree species does not do well in extreme cold or hot conditions.
How do you care for a Painted Maple during different seasons?
Caring for a Painted Maple requires seasonal adjustments due to its preference for moderate temperatures. During the summer, providing shade can help protect the tree from excessive heat. In winter, mulching around the base of the tree can help insulate the roots and protect the tree from extreme cold.
