How to identify Fullmoon maple (Acer japonicum)
Fullmoon maple, also known as Amur maple
Fullmoon maple exhibits a symmetrical, round to spreading silhouette, standing at a stately height of 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters). The deciduous canopy is characterized by distinctively rounded leaves that mirror the shape of a full moon. Cradled against smooth, gray bark, the foliage emerges with multitudes of deeply dissected lobes. Typically encountered in a majestic multitrunked presentation, fullmoon maple epitomizes the serenity of traditional Asian gardens.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Tree
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Rounded, palmate leaves with 7-11 lobes, measuring 3-6 inches (7.5-15 cm) in length.
Distinctive samara fruit, 1 inch (2.54 cm) long, with winged achene for wind dispersal.
Small purplish-red flowers in pendulous corymbs, blooming in early spring.
Multi-branching stem, transitioning from slender reddish-green to brown in the second year.
Graying, scaly bark with moderate thickness, evolving from smooth to rugged over time.
Fullmoon maple leaves are rounded and palmate, resembling a fern-like structure. They are arranged oppositely and measure between 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 cm) in length. Each leaf displays 7 to 11 acuminate, toothed, and cut lobes, which are ovate to lance-shaped. These medium green leaves have a prominent vein pattern that enhances their textured appearance, making them distinctive and easy to identify.
The flowers of fullmoon maple are small and purplish-red, arranged in pendulous corymbs. They appear in early spring (April) before the leaves and provide a striking visual display. Each flower features long stalks and a mix of white and maroon coloration. The blooms contribute to the plant’s vibrant maroon-red foliage in the fall. These characteristics, including their early appearance and distinct color combination, make the flowers of fullmoon maple notable and easily identifiable for enthusiasts.
The stem of fullmoon maple is multi-branching with stiff twigs. In the first year, it is slender, glabrous, and reddish-green. By the second year, a marked color transition occurs, shifting to brown with a sharp demarcation line between the current year's and the previous year's growth. This identifiable color change and its slender, smooth texture play a crucial role in distinguishing fullmoon maple. Additionally, the stem's branching pattern is noticeable early, providing further identification cues.
The fruit of fullmoon maple is a distinctive samara, which is a type of winged achene that facilitates wind dispersal. Each samara typically measures around 1 inch (2.54 cm) in length and matures in late summer to early fall. Usually found in pairs, the samaras possess a smooth texture and a shape that suggests a pair of wings. As they ripen, the samaras may exhibit a variety of colors, ranging from green to shades of yellow or brown, before detaching from the tree and being dispersed by the breeze.
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Scientific Classification of Fullmoon maple
