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Acer palmatum dissectum Ornatum is a classic and highly regarded lace-leaf Japanese maple, known for its beautifully dissected foliage, graceful weeping habit and outstanding seasonal colour. One of the older and most reliable cultivars, it adds delicate structure and rich tones to any garden.
Foliage: Finely cut, lace-like leaves emerge bronze-red in spring, turn to a soft bronze-green with reddish overtones in summer, then put on a stunning show of fiery red and orange in autumn. Unlike many dissectums that lose their red tones early, Ornatum retains hints of red well into summer.
Habit: Forms a lovely mounding, cascading shape, typically reaching 1.52 metres high with a spread of up to 2.53 metres, creating an elegant umbrella effect.
Bark: Smooth grey-brown twigs give modest winter structure once leaves fall.
Its refined, airy texture and warm tones make Ornatum ideal planted by water, on raised banks where its branches can spill naturally, or as a focal specimen in borders and Japanese-style gardens.
Prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight.
Can tolerate some morning sun, which enriches colour, but needs protection from hot afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Always plant in a sheltered spot away from strong winds, which can damage the fine foliage.
Important to avoid exposed positions. Strong winds can shred the delicate, dissected leaves and cause browning.
Likes soil to be consistently moist but well-drained.
During dry spells, water deeply, especially in the first few years or if grown in containers.
An annual mulch of compost or bark in spring helps retain moisture and protect shallow roots.
Prefers slightly acidic to neutral, fertile, humus-rich soils.
Avoid heavy clay or alkaline sites. 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 encourage lush, soft growth prone to wind and frost damage.
Requires minimal pruning.
Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late autumn or winter while dormant.
Avoid heavy pruning which ruins its graceful natural habit.
Generally trouble-free.
May occasionally see aphids on new growth.
Leaf scorch (brown edges) is usually caused by drought, excessive sun, or wind not disease.
Excellent in large pots, ideal for patios or small gardens.
Use ericaceous compost with added grit, ensure pots have good drainage, and raise them on feet to avoid waterlogging.
Keep well watered in summer, and protect pots from freezing in severe winter spells.