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Acer palmatum Linearilobum is a distinctive Japanese maple celebrated for its narrow, strap-like leaves, which create a wonderfully delicate, thread-like effect. Unlike the broad lobes of typical Japanese maples, the leaves of Linearilobum look almost like finely cut ribbons, offering a unique texture that stands out beautifully in the garden.
Foliage: Leaves are deeply divided into long, slender lobes (almost hair-like), giving a light, airy appearance. They emerge bright red in spring, gradually maturing to reddish-green or bronzy green in summer, before turning fiery crimson-red in autumn, creating a striking seasonal display.
Habit: Forms an elegant, upright small tree or large shrub, typically reaching 34 metres high, with a spread of about 23 metres, developing a softly rounded crown over time.
Bark: Smooth grey stems add understated winter interest once the leaves fall.
Because of its unusually fine foliage, Linearilobum adds movement and texture, contrasting beautifully with broader-leaved plants and providing a sense of delicacy in borders, woodland gardens or Japanese-inspired plantings.
Prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight.
Will tolerate some morning or early afternoon sun, which helps intensify its autumn colours, but needs protection from hot, harsh afternoon sun which can scorch the narrow leaves.
Always plant in a sheltered position, away from strong or drying winds.
Essential to protect from wind, which can damage or shred the fine, narrow leaf lobes, leading to browning at the edges.
Likes soil to be consistently moist but well-drained.
Water thoroughly during dry spells, especially when newly planted or grown in containers.
Apply a mulch of bark or compost each spring to retain moisture and keep shallow roots cool.
Prefers slightly acidic to neutral, fertile, humus-rich soil.
Avoid heavy clay or very alkaline soils. If necessary, plant in raised beds or containers using ericaceous compost mixed with grit for drainage.
Feed lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser or a specialist acer feed.
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers, which produce soft growth more vulnerable to wind or frost.
Requires minimal pruning.
Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches in late autumn or winter when the tree is dormant.
Avoid hard cutting back, which spoils its natural airy form.
Generally very healthy and low-maintenance.
May occasionally see aphids on new shoots.
Leaf scorch (browned tips or edges) is usually due to drought, strong wind or intense sun, not disease.
Works well in large pots, perfect for patios or smaller gardens.
Use ericaceous compost with added grit, ensure good drainage by raising the pot on feet, and water consistently.
In very cold spells, protect container roots by wrapping the pot or moving to a sheltered spot.