SCIENTIFIC NAME: Acer palmatum 'First Ghost'

COMMON NAME: First Ghost Japanese Maple

GARDEN SIZE: 10 feet tall x 8-10 feet wide

GROWTH RATE: Moderate (up to 10-12 inches 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, semi-pendulous growth habit

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; white with soft green and dark green veins in spring, green with white variegation in summer, glowing yellow and orange in fall

FLOWERS: N/A

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