Good plant #19 - Acer Shirasawanum 'Aureum'

This stunning small tree is not as popular as the 'red leaf' acers.  Quality trees are quite difficult to find.  This acer is also fairly pricey. Even for a titchy small tree, you are looking at £30-£40.  The unusual leaf form and growing habit of this tree is evocative of a sophisticated japenese garden.

This acer will thrive in most free draining soils. If you have clay soil, add some compost and grit to the soil to improve drainage.

This acer (like most other small acers) lends itself to growing in pots using a soil based compost with extra grit to improve drainage.

This acer can be pruned – new growth in June and older growth in September. Carefully does it though!  This plant grows fast when it’s young and may put out an excessively long  branch that needs pruning to keep a good shape. 


This plant prefers a sheltered site and part shade.


The main enemies of this plant are a late spring frost, over or under-watering and scorching by the wind.


Use the 'SEARCH THIS BLOG' function (right) or click here for more good plants and gardening tips: http://greenshootsgardeningandhorticulture.blogspot.com/