Japanese Maple 'Amoenum'

Source Data

Cryptomeria japonica, or "Japanese cypress", in Japanese "sugi", in Chinese "Shan", "red Japanese cedar" (Cryptomeria japonica) is a coniferous evergreen forest – forming tree with a height of up to 60 m, with a trunk thickness of up to 2 m, the only species of its genus.
The bark is fibrous. Red-brown color. Over time, it peels off and gradually falls off. The shoots form a conical crown.
Scales on small buds are absent. The triangular needles have a needle-like structure. In length, it rarely exceeds 25 mm. It feels soft to the touch. The location of the needles is spiral. Only 5 rows. Each needle is bent inwards and slightly curved.
The life span of the needles is up to 7 years. The color is different and depends on the season. In summer-light and dark green, in winter the color changes to brown.
The plant is monoecious. The flowers are formed at the very tips of the shoots. The color in both cases is yellow. It is very rare to meet bunches of 2-3 flowers, since single ones grow more often. the cones are not large in size.
Rarely exceed 2 cm. Their color is brown. The shape is spherical. The scales are maple-shaped and lignified. They do not leave their places even after full opening and further dispersal of the seeds.
The life span of coniferous Cryptomeria reaches 1000 years. Some instances live much longer. The Japanese made the culture in the state register of values, as the plant is considered a national symbol.

Instructions

1. Growing Japanese Maple 'Amoenum' (Acer palmatum subsp. 'Amoenum') from seed is a rewarding process. Follow these guidelines for best results.
2. Seed Preparation: Cold stratification is required. Place seeds in moist sand or vermiculite in a sealed bag and refrigerate at 1–5°C for 4–8 weeks before sowing. Some species may require 60–90 days of cold stratification for optimal germination.
3. Sowing: Sow seeds 0.5–1 cm deep in well-draining seed compost. Water gently and keep consistently moist but not waterlogged. Place in a bright location at 18–22°C.
4. Germination: Seeds typically germinate in 2–12 weeks after stratification. Germination may be sporadic — do not discard pots if no seedlings appear within the expected timeframe.
5. Transplanting: Transplant seedlings into individual pots once they have 2–3 pairs of true leaves. Harden off gradually over 7–10 days before planting in final position. Space according to the mature size of the species.
6. Aftercare: Water regularly during the first growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring. Mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune as needed to maintain shape.
7. Hardiness: Hardy in most temperate climates. Suitable for USDA zones 4–8 depending on species. Established plants can tolerate winter temperatures well below freezing.

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