Question
Answer and Explanation
Japanese maples (Acer palmatum) typically flower in the spring, usually around April or May, depending on the specific cultivar and local climate. However, the flowers are quite small and inconspicuous, often overlooked because they are not the main attraction of these trees.
The flowers of Japanese maples are often reddish or purplish and appear in clusters before or at the same time as the leaves emerge. They are followed by the development of samaras (winged seeds), which become more noticeable later in the season. While not the showiest flowers, they play a crucial role in the tree’s reproduction and are an interesting detail to observe. Japanese Maples are primarily admired for their stunning foliage and graceful forms rather than their blooms.