Japanese Maple-Acer dissectum 'Crimson Queen'

Something to Ponder:

The Japanese Maple Acer dissectum, also known as the Crimson Queen, is the smaller version of most other maple trees, including the Japanese Maple palmatum found elsewhere on this property. The Crimson Queen will grow only to about 10 feet and takes on a weeping feature as its branches and leaves seem to fall forward toward the ground. Despite its short stature, this tree is widely coveted among landscapers for its lovely color that changes from red in the spring to purple then bronze in the fall.

As you would expect, Japanese Maples originated in the far East, however, the Crimson Queen originated in the United States in 1965. Since that time, this tree has become one of the more common trees in any city or suburban landscape primarily because of its small size and ability to thrive in almost any kind of soil. It struggles in areas of prolonged cold and needs to be planted close to buildings or under the protection of another tree to thrive.

As you consider this tree it may be difficult to be as impressed as you would staring up a towering Oak, but it is a good reminder that not all of God’s creation is meant to produce wonder and awe. This may even help us remember there are people and places in our lives that don’t do well out in the open, that need protection, that are beautiful in a less than traditional sense.

It is easy to dismiss this small tree that seems to beg to be inconspicuous but spend some time here and appreciate a tree that has a canopy wider than it is tall. You may have to really bend down to enjoy the shade of this tree; In fact, you may have to get on your knees. Doesn’t it seem that sometimes that is exactly how our God wants us to view His creation?

Fun Facts:

The 'Crimson Queen' Japanese Maple-Acer palmatum 'Crimson Queen', a variation of standard Japanese maples, is one of the prettiest of the dwarf trees. It is an excellent fall foliage tree as it keeps its bright-red foliage, and its cascading habit offers some winter interest. The typical tree is about 10 feet tall making it a good choice for tight spaces in smaller landscapes. Additionally, Crimson Queen is one of those sought-after plants that will grow under Black Walnut trees.