Acer palmatum ‘Senkaki’ (Sango-kaku)

About the Family

Acer, commonly known as maples, is a diverse and widely loved genus of trees and shrubs celebrated for their graceful habit, ornamental foliage, and stunning seasonal colour. With over 120 species distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, Acers range from stately, long-lived forest trees to compact, slow-growing forms perfect for small gardens and containers. Their distinctive lobed leaves, often finely divided, bring elegance throughout the growing season before transforming into brilliant displays of red, orange, or gold in autumn.

Japanese maples (Acer palmatum and its cultivars) are especially prized for their delicate foliage and artistic shapes, making them popular centrepieces in gardens worldwide. Larger species, such as Acer saccharum (sugar maple) and Acer platanoides (Norway maple), provide valuable shade and are renowned for their autumn brilliance. Many species also produce winged seeds, or samaras, which add seasonal interest and aid natural self-sowing.

Adaptable and versatile, Acers grow in a wide range of conditions but generally prefer moist, well-drained soil and shelter from harsh winds. Their beauty, longevity, and variety ensure they have a place in almost any garden design, from woodland plantings to formal landscapes, offering year-round interest and a timeless connection to nature.