Everyone loves a maple. Or at least that’s the way it seems. Even novice gardeners will often have a maple at the top of their ‘must have’ list. You’ll see these beautiful plants and trees in gardens up and down the country and of course much further afield. They are always in demand. But why are Japanese maple plants so popular?

There’s more than one reason for the continuing popularity of maples. First and foremost, they are beautiful when in full colour. Deep, gorgeous reds, auburn oranges and glossy green leaves will be on display bringing a bright, vibrancy to any garden.

As well as producing a dazzling display maples are so versatile and will suit any setting. Choose from dwarf or very slow growing varieties and enjoy a beautiful plant that can sit happily in a small space or pot to an amazing 25-foot tree to provide the focal point for any garden. Do be aware that a maple you believe is a dwarf variety may in fact just be very slow growing. Another consideration is that even those which only grow to around 3 feet tall will spread outwards seemingly which can overpower other plants and cause shade.

One of the biggest factors that make Japanese maple plants so popular is that they are fully hardy to the UK climate and so easy to grow. Even the most inexperienced gardener will get great results when they plant a maple. Just remember they love full sun or partial shade and you’re good to go. As a general rule maples don’t require pruning and the plants are very low maintenance.

But the main reason why maples are so popular, and why you need at least one in your garden, is that they are so attractive.

All in all, Japanese maples make a wonderful centrepiece for any garden and every planting scheme should make room for at least one maple. Whether you’re looking for a focal point, an attractive addition to the border, a tree to drag the eye or a plant to sit in a container on your patio there is a maple for you.

What are the different varieties of Japanese maple plants?

There are very many different types of maple. In fact, there are well over 1,000 different varieties and cultivars (cultivated varieties developed by horticulturists). Though perhaps that isn’t so surprising given the immense popularity of the plant.

Here at Direct Plants we have a great selection of Japanese maple plants. All are ideal for growing in the UK climate and you’ll get great results with any of these plants. You can see the full choice here. But what is the most popular maple?

Japanese maple Palmatum

The most popular maple of them all? Probably. It’s certainly a variety most of us are very familiar with and is always one of the biggest sellers here at Direct Plants.

Why are Japanese maples so expensive?

Price is always subjective but it really is a myth that Japanese maples are expensive. Of course, prices will vary between growers but our most popular maple, the aforementioned Palmatum, only costs around £15. Which is fantastic value for money in anyone’s language. And while price does depend on the variety and maturity of the maple you’re buying they are certainly no more expensive than other plants and shrubs.

Why does my red leaf Japanese maple have green leaves?

The most common explanation is a very simple one. Maples in deep shade will turn a pale red or green. The more sun they get the more the leaves will take on that beautiful red colour we most often associate with maples. Of course, it should be made clear we’re discussing red leaf plants here. There are some varieties of maple that have green summer leaves.

Need more info about Japanese maple plants?

If you need any more information, or have any questions about maples, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. The best way to contact our team is by email. Drop us a line to sales@directplants.co.uk and we’ll do our best to answer any queries you many have within 24 hours.