Acer 'Ample Surprise'PBR
A compact deciduous tree, to around 3m in 10 years, with palmate, glossy leaves that emerge deep red and gradually turn green, from the centre of the leaf outwards. Small yellow-green flowers are produced in spring, followed by small winged seeds, and leaves turn orange and red before dropping in late autumn
Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow Green | Red | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Red | |||
| Autumn | Green Red Orange | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Spreading branched
- Genus
Acer can be deciduous trees or large shrubs with paired, often palmately-lobed leaves and small flowers followed by characteristic winged fruits. Many have fine autumn colour, and some have ornamental stems
- Name status
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moisture-retentive, well-drained, ideally slightly acidic soil, in a sheltered position with protection from drying winds. Thrives in part shade, as some sun is needed to develop the leaf colour, but will tolerate full sun if soil is reliably moist. Mulch in spring, especially when grown in containers, to improve moisture retention. See Japanese maples cultivation
Propagation
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
Minimal pruning required; see pruning group 1. Prune from late autumn to mid-winter only
Pests
May be susceptible to Acer gall mite, aphids, caterpillars and horse chestnut scale
Diseases
May be susceptible to Verticillium wilt, Acer leaf scorch and honey fungus
Get involved
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