Pung Kil Japanese Maple

Pung kil Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Pung kil')

Pung kil Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Pung kil') is an elegant and finely textured selection known for its feathery foliage and graceful habit. With deeply divided leaves that emerge a rich red in spring, this cultivar offers long-lasting color, shifting to maroon in summer and finishing with glowing crimson tones in fall. Its lacy texture and soft mounding form bring a sense of movement and delicacy to borders, courtyards, and Japanese-style gardens.

Distinctive Features

'Pung kil' features finely dissected foliage with an airy, threadlike quality. The leaves unfold in spring with a deep reddish hue and retain their color well into the warmer months, especially when sited in filtered light. Its mature form is rounded to slightly cascading, typically reaching 4 to 5 feet tall and wide over ten years. The combination of compact size and rich seasonal tones makes it an excellent choice for small gardens and detailed plantings.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Best in partial shade; morning sun with afternoon protection preserves foliage color and prevents scorching.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• Water: Moderate; needs consistent moisture during the growing season.
• Humidity: Handles average humidity with good airflow; avoid overly dense plantings.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; cold hardy and reliable in most temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Lacy foliage and vibrant color make it a natural centerpiece.
• Asian and Zen Gardens: Harmonizes well with stone, water, and evergreen elements.
• Foundation Beds: Adds fine texture and layered color near patios and structures.
• Containers: Compact habit makes it ideal for decorative pots and courtyard gardens.
• Woodland Borders: Offers brightness and contrast beneath tall tree canopies.

Low Maintenance Care

'Pung kil' thrives with basic care and benefits from protection against extreme sun and wind. It is naturally compact and rarely requires pruning to maintain its refined form.

• Watering: Maintain even soil moisture, especially in summer heat or dry periods.
• Pruning: Minimal; prune in late winter to remove any damaged or crossing branches.
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support foliage color and growth.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally trouble-free with proper planting conditions.
• Winter Care: Hardy and low-maintenance; mulching helps protect roots from winter extremes.

Why Choose Pung kil Japanese Maple?

'Pung kil' offers fine foliage, rich seasonal color, and a naturally elegant form�ideal for gardeners looking to add depth, contrast, and quiet beauty to their landscape.

• Deep Red Spring Foliage: Striking color adds warmth to early-season plantings.
• Lace-Like Texture: Finely dissected leaves create a delicate, airy aesthetic.
• Compact Size: Perfect for small gardens, patios, or mixed borders.
• Graceful Mounding Habit: Adds softness and balance to structured designs.
• Reliable Performance: Consistent color, shape, and growth across seasons.

With its finely cut foliage and subtle grace, Pung kil Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Pung kil') brings color, texture, and tranquility to gardens both large and small.