PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerates mild afternoon shade in hot summer climates to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5–10 cm of soil dries out; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; thrives in temperate conditions and avoids prolonged extreme heat above 35°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Palmate lobed leaves with 3–5 serrated lobes, turning vivid red or orange in autumn
- Flower: Small greenish-yellow umbellate clusters, emerging alongside new spring foliage
- Stem/Bark: Smooth grey-brown bark on young trees, developing shallow fissures as it matures
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth periods
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once at bud break. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote autumn foliage color
Eggshell powder topdress：Grind dried eggshells to a fine powder; dust lightly on the soil surface, avoiding direct contact with tree roots to prevent irritationPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin overcrowded interior branches to improve air circulation and light penetration
- Shape lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, rounded form
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Valued for its vibrant autumn foliage in Japanese garden design
Usage: Ornamental garden tree; used in small landscapes and container cultivation
