PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Partial to full sun; tolerates light shade, with best autumn color development in sites with morning sun and afternoon filtered shade
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil dries out; avoid prolonged waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -20°C; withstands cool temperate winters and prefers mild summer temperatures below 30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Palmately compound with 5 pointed, serrated lobes; turns bright red or orange in autumn
- Flower: Small, yellow-green blooms clustered in drooping racemes
- Stem: Slender gray-brown bark with subtle, raised lenticels
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth
Fertilization
Apply slow-release granular fertilizer once in early spring. Use a balanced, nitrogen-rich fertilizer to support leaf growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush clean, dried eggshells to fine powder; sprinkle 1 tbsp per plant and gently work into topsoil to avoid root disturbancePruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin dense inner branches to improve air circulation and light penetration
- Shape young trees to maintain a compact, rounded form in early spring
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes autumn beauty in traditional Japanese garden design
Usage: Ornamental tree for small gardens, fall foliage displays, and container cultivation
