Acer Palmatum Skeeters Broom

Acer Palmatum Skeeter’s Broom or Japanese Maple Skeeter’s Broom
This deciduous Acer Palmatum Skeeter’s Broom is a dwarf red-leaved variety of Japanese Maple introduced by the Raraflora Nursery in Pennsylvania. The Skeeter’s Broom cultivar was derived from Acer Palmatum Bloodgood. While it is similar to other dwarf red cultivars that count Bloodgood in their lineage, it has some noticeably different characteristics that set it apart. 

Acer Palmatum Skeeter’s Broom has deeply lobed leaves that are larger than other Bloodgood cultivars. The leaves emerge a bright red colour in the spring. Over the summer months, the leaves fade to a greenish burgundy. When autumn arrives, the foliage turns brilliant red and orange hues. It holds its striking red colour well throughout the growing season. 

Height and Spread of  Acer Palmatum Skeeter’s Broom 
Japanese Maple Skeeter’s Broom grows to a height and a width of 2 metres. 

How Hardy is the Acer Palmatum Skeeter’s Broom?
Japanese Maple Skeeter’s Broom is hardy to a UK plant hardiness zone 4. It can withstand temperatures of -10 to -5 C. It will grow throughout most of the UK but may have problems in central or northerly areas. 

How to Use the Acer Palmatum Skeeter's Broom 
This brilliantly coloured dwarf Japanese Acer is relatively low maintenance. It makes an excellent choice for mass plantings, in rock gardens, japanese gardens and for general garden use. Plant it somewhere that onlookers can admire its strikingly brilliant hues. 

How to Care for the Acer Palmatum Skeeter’s Broom
This dwarf Japanese Acer will live for 50 or more years. Choose a location that provides full sun or partial shade for the best foliage colours. The shrub is not particular about soil pH and will grow well in virtually any area. Pick a well-draining planting site. Once planted, keep the roots moist but not overly wet to encourage abundant growth. It can be grown with ease in pots and containers. Prune the shrub during dormancy to maintain its overall appearance and size.