Plant Profile: Acer maximowiczianum

The Nikko maple, a deciduous shade tree belonging to the Sapindaceae family, features smooth, gray bark. This species is indigenous to China and Japan, and its leaves are unique among maples, comprising three distinct leaflets. The tree boasts a charming, vase-like shape with a rounded top and showcases striking red-orange foliage in the fall, which is its main appeal. Unlike typical maples, the Nikko maple does not possess the classic maple leaf structure; instead, each leaf is divided into three segments.

For optimal growth, the Nikko maple thrives in areas that receive full sunlight and have moist, well-drained soil. It is notably resilient against insect pests and is quite simple to transplant.