Beni Otake Japanese Maple

Beni otake Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Beni otake')

Beni otake Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Beni otake') is a bold, upright cultivar celebrated for its narrow, strap-like leaves and rich, dark red color. The name translates to �Red Bamboo,� referencing the tree�s tall, slender habit and linear foliage that gives the appearance of bamboo canes swaying in the wind. This unique variety adds vertical interest and dramatic texture to landscapes, with leaves that shift from deep burgundy in spring and summer to fiery crimson-red in fall.

Distinctive Features

'Beni otake' features long, slender, deeply divided leaves that cascade from upright branches, creating a textural effect not often seen in other Japanese maples. Its foliage remains a strong, dark maroon throughout the growing season, holding color well even in partial sun. The tree forms a tall, vase-shaped structure, typically reaching 10 to 12 feet high and 4 to 6 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for vertical accents and narrow spaces.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; afternoon shade helps prevent leaf scorch in hotter climates.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Moderate; maintain even moisture, particularly in the first few years after planting.
• Humidity: Performs best in moderate humidity with some protection from drying winds.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8; cold hardy and dependable across much of the U.S.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Plantings: Tall, slender form and rich foliage create a strong vertical accent in the landscape.
• Urban Gardens: Ideal for tight spaces where horizontal spread is limited.
• Japanese Gardens: Offers elegant structure and movement, perfect for tranquil designs.
• Mixed Borders: Adds contrast in form and color to companion plantings.
• Containers: Can be grown in large pots for patios and entryways.

Low Maintenance Care

Beni otake is a low-maintenance maple with a naturally upright habit. Its strong form requires little shaping, and it thrives with basic seasonal care in a well-chosen location.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods; mulch helps conserve moisture and stabilize soil temperature.
• Pruning: Minimal; prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead wood or refine the tree's structure.
• Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to support healthy foliage and growth.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to pests; monitor for aphids and treat as needed.
• Winter Care: Hardy in Zones 5�8; protect roots with mulch in colder climates.

Why Choose Beni otake Japanese Maple?

Beni otake brings a sleek, architectural presence to gardens, pairing narrow foliage with bold color and an elegant upright habit.

• Unique Leaf Shape: Strap-like foliage offers a dramatic contrast to broader-leafed plants.
• Dark Red Coloration: Rich burgundy tones hold through summer and light up in fall.
• Vertical Structure: Perfect for narrow beds, tight spaces, and structural garden design.
• Easy Care: Naturally upright habit requires little maintenance.
• Year-Round Interest: Offers striking form and color throughout the seasons.

For vertical interest, rich color, and unusual texture, Beni otake Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum 'Beni otake') is a standout choice for refined landscapes and collectors alike.