SCIENTIFIC NAME: Acer palmatum 'Ruby Stars' (Syn. Acer palmatum 'Beni Hoshi')

COMMON NAME: Ruby Stars Japanese Maple

GARDEN SIZE: 5-6 ft. tall x 4-5 ft. wide

GROWTH RATE: Slow to Moderate (up to 4-6" per year under ideal conditions)

USDA ZONE: 5-9

EXPOSURE: Shade to Partial Sun

WATER & SOIL: Tolerant of various soil moistures and textures. Requires supplemental water during drought conditions.

HABIT (FORM): Upright, Compact, Rounded

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; Deep Red in Spring with Bright Red Second Flush, Green in Summer with Red New Growth, Bright Yellow and Gold to Orange in Fall

FLOWERS: Inconspicuous

PLANT ORIGIN: Japan, Korea and China

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: May provide some nesting sites and shelter for birds and small mammals, but does not serve as much of a food source for local insects and wildlife.

FERTILIZING: Not necessary, but may apply organic compost in the spring. Fertilization can lead to excessive growth.

PRUNING: No pruning is necessary. May remove dead branches when needed. If shaping is desired, may be trimmed during dormancy.

TOXICITY FLAGS: Not generally considered toxic to pets.

USES: Specimen, Fall Color