Description
Acer palmatum ‘Beni otake’ is a wonderful purple-leaved member of the Linearilobum group, with narrow-lobed leaves divided to the base, giving the tree an open, airy appearance. Positioned where it will receive at least half a day of sun will result in strong reddish-purple tones but this will be more muted in a shadier spot. Full sun will be tolerated provided the soil is moisture-retentive and the position not too exposed.
As with all members of the Linearilobum group, the new leaves produced on this year’s wood tend to be slightly larger and the lobes wider, often with more toothing. The foliage on older wood however, will be thinner and more as expected. Maples of the World suggests that the original mother plants reached only around two metres in 25 years, so this would be a good choice if you are looking for a Japanese maple that doesn’t get too tall.