In Search of a Japanese Maple

Shopping for trees is like shopping for furniture. You’ll find the same thing in prices that range from inexpensive to crazy. So went my afternoon trip to neighborhood nurseries to find a weeping Japanese maple.

The wispy, red, orange or yellow leaves are a welcome addition to any backyard garden, but how much do you really know about this popular tree? Below are a few Japanese Maple tree facts:

1. The tree is indigenous to northeast Asia and was introduced to North America in the mid-1800s.

2. Japanese Maple trees can be as little as two feet tall or as large as 30 feet, depending on the variety.

3. There are more than 1000 cultivars (types) of Japanese Maple trees.

4. Japanese Maple trees prefer to be planted in partial to full sun.

5. These trees thrive in growing zones 5-8.

As for my search, I’m still looking; I’ll let you know when I find the perfect tree.

(photo credit: stock xchng)